SEREMBAN: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) will receive 60 Tarantula High Mobility Armoured Vehicles (HMAV 4x4) from 2027, as part of a phased delivery of 136 units, Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd (Mildef) says.

Managing director Datuk Seri Mohd Nizam Kasa said the rollout would take place over five years, beginning with the completion of a Final User Vehicle or Seal Pattern as the reference model before full-scale production.

"About 30 units are scheduled for delivery in early 2027, followed by another 30 units by year-end under the first phase," he said in an interview.

He said the phased process was important to ensure the Tarantula's design, capabilities and ballistic protection meet the army's operational requirements.

Developed by Mildef, these locally produced armoured vehicles are designed to meet the army's operational needs and boost its combat readiness.

The Defence Ministry had earlier signed a letter of intent (LOI) worth RM1.8bil with Mildef for the procurement of 136 units, which will become the army’s latest assets.

Meanwhile, Mohd Nizam revealed that the company is the only local defence manufacturer currently bidding for a United Nations tender to supply Malaysia's first High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicle (HMLTV), known as the Ribat.

"The decision on the contract award is expected before October. The UN requires 50 units, and Mildef's facility can produce up to 60 units annually," he said.

He added that the Ribat reflects the determination of local industry to develop defence assets long considered the domain of advanced nations.

"Ribat itself symbolises the spirit of safeguarding the homeland, inspired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim," he said.

Anwar is scheduled to officiate at Mildef's new national armoured vehicle manufacturing facility in Sendayan, Negri Sembilan, this Saturday (Aug 23). - Bernama