Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering (KPE) has announced the delivery of a new batch of Arlan 4×4 armored personal carriers to the Kazakhstan military.
The indigenously developed vehicles were manufactured at the KPE armored vehicle production facility in Nursultan, one of the region’s largest and most advanced armored factories.
In the past four years, KPE has delivered several armored platforms to the military forces of Kazakhstan, which are currently deployed in the country.
The delivery comes amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Kazakhstan, formerly part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics like Ukraine, fears that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have further ambitions towards the Asian country.
Earlier Deliveries
The Kazakhstan military received its first Arlans in August 2016, and a special forces variant was delivered in late 2017.
Later in November 2019, the Kazakh MoD announced the delivery of mine-resistant Arlans vehicles. However, the country has not disclosed the number of platforms delivered.
About the Arlan
The Arlan is the winterized version of the Marauder, a mine-resistant vehicle designed to operate in challenging environments for missions such as infantry fire support, quick reaction force operations, and long-range border patrol.
With a weight of 13,500 kilograms (29,760 pounds) and a payload capacity of 4,500 kilograms (9,920 pounds), the platform is capable of climbing gradients of up to 60 degrees and side slopes of 35 degrees.
It is also equipped with pre-ignition engine heating and a temperature control system, functioning reliably in temperatures down to -50 degrees Celsius (-58 Fahrenheit).
The armored vehicle can withstand debris and blast shocks, while its double-skin plates provide security against explosions including roadside bombs and IEDs. The vehicle is capable of speeds up to 120 kilometers (74.6 miles) per hour with a range of up to 700 kilometers (435 miles).
Arlan is fitted with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear air filtration systems, enabling the platform to operate even in contaminated environments.
It can accommodate two crew members and up to seven personnel. It can also carry extra fuel tanks, water, and combat supplies.