ST Engineering has entered a strategic partnership with Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering (KPE) to establish local production capabilities for a new 8x8 amphibious multi-purpose armoured vehicle.  

The collaboration will involve engineering and technical support for the design and manufacturing of the vehicle, leveraging ST Engineering's Terrex Infantry Fighting Vehicle technology. 

The Terrex 8x8 series offers a network-centric, mobile, and survivable wheeled vehicle platform.  

It can be equipped with a remote-control weapon system featuring a heavy machine gun, a coaxial 40mm/7.62mm machine gun with a 40mm air-bursting munitions system, or a 30mm cannon.  

The vehicle features an integrated camera system that enhances situational awareness and closed hatch driving capabilities both day and night. 

The vehicle's digital architecture supports technology integration, including navigation systems, battle management systems, power control, and communication systems.  

KPE Supervisory Board chairman Aibek Baryssov said: “KPE's production capabilities stand at 500 units of various types of armoured vehicles per year per shift and our extensive experience in deep localisation, scientific research, and the operation of armoured vehicles in Kazakhstan's unique geographic conditions, together with ST Engineering, will enable us to fully meet the needs of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Kazakhstan for amphibious 8x8 vehicles.” 

The partnership aligns with ST Engineering's strategy to expand its international defence business through localisation and in-country operations, addressing the needs of clients aiming to enhance local military capabilities and supply chain resilience. 

ST Engineering Land Systems business president Lim Kok Ann said: “This marks a breakthrough for our Land Systems business in terms of securing its first significant international land platform contract in recent years, as well as entry into a new market in Central Asia. 

“We look forward to a successful collaboration with KPE and we are confident that the new platform will meet the operational needs of its users.”  

Production of the new vehicle is scheduled to commence at KPE’s facility in Kazakhstan in 2025.  

In 2019, KPE delivered 'Arlan' 4x4 mine-protected armoured vehicles to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Defense and Special Services Division.