Kazakhstan has introduced the Taimas 8x8, a new generation armored combat vehicle jointly developed with Turkey and China, by signing an important cooperation in the defense industry. The vehicle was introduced to the public for the first time at a military parade held in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The ceremony was also attended by high-level representatives of Chinese defense giant Norinco and Turkish land vehicle manufacturer OTOKAR, which played an important role in the project.
A Powerful Platform Developed with International Collaboration
The Taimas program stands out as a strategic partnership carried out under the main integratorship of the Astana MPR Project based in Kazakhstan. In this collaboration, OTOKAR from Türkiye provides the world-famous armored combat vehicle platform ARMA 8x8, while the Chinese company Norinco supplies the dual-caliber (100 mm and 30 mm cannon) VN11 turret system that forms the firepower of Taimas. The Taimas 8x8, which emerged with the combination of the strong capabilities of these three countries in the defense industry, is preparing to take a challenging position in its class.
Superior Technical Specifications and Rigorous Testing
According to the Defense Blog, Taimas 8x8 weighs approximately 30 tons and has amphibious features. Thanks to this, it can effectively operate in land operations and overcome water obstacles. The vehicle can reach speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour on land, which provides rapid movement and maneuverability. Having successfully passed more than 50.000 kilometers of tests in difficult conditions in different climatic zones of Kazakhstan, Taimas 8x8 was officially accepted into service by the Kazakh Ministry of Defense after proving its durability and reliability.
High Mine Protection and Amphibious Capability
Astana MPR Project Director Vadim Shakshakbayev emphasized that Taimas 8x8 is one of the most powerful armored combat vehicles in its class, saying, “This vehicle can withstand a mine explosion of up to 10 kilograms under the hull and remain fully functional in radiation threat conditions. Even with a heavy turret, the vehicle can maintain full amphibious functionality.” These features make Taimas a platform that offers high survivability for personnel in difficult combat conditions.
Emphasis on Combat Capability from OTOKAR
OTOKAR Central Asia Board Member Ufuk Aybar drew attention to the platform’s combat capabilities, saying, “This vehicle has the ability to destroy tanks.” This statement shows that the Taimas 8x8 not only carries infantry, but also has the firepower to effectively combat heavy armored vehicles. The combination of 100 mm and 30 mm guns on the turret system provided by Norinco offers a wide range of firepower against different threats.
Technology Transfer and Local Production Target
Kazakhstan’s request for technology transfer as part of this partnership is considered part of the country’s strategy to develop its defense industry and increase domestic production capabilities. Accordingly, it is stated that all major stages of production, from armor steel cutting to final assembly, will be carried out at a facility to be established in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. This step is seen as an important development towards Kazakhstan’s goal of reducing its external dependency in the defense sector and achieving long-term self-sufficiency.
Supply Number Not Yet Determined
The Kazakhstan Ministry of Defense has not yet officially announced how many Taimas 8x8 vehicles will be procured. The country is currently hosting another armored combat vehicle project called Barys A 8x8, based on the Terrex platform and developed by Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering. This shows that Kazakhstan is making efforts to modernize and diversify its armored vehicle fleet. With the entry of the Taimas 8x8 into the inventory, the combat effectiveness of the Kazakh army is expected to increase significantly. This trilateral partnership also sets a remarkable example in terms of regional defense cooperation.
