Malaysia’s Kembara Suci Develops 4×4 SOV

20 Juni 2018

An unarmed Kembara Suci SOV with banks of 76 mm grenade launchers seen mounted on its front. (photo : Jane's)

Malaysia’s Kembara Suci has developed a new special operations vehicle (SOV) using internal funding to meet the potential requirements of the Malaysian Army.

The service tested the vehicle in late 2017, although a firm order has yet to materialise.

The SOV is powered by a Caterpillar 5-cylinder line diesel developing 197hp at 2,400 rpm coupled to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission.

The chassis features front independent double wishbone suspension with coil springs and ventilated disc brakes, while the rear suspension comprises a rigid axle with leaf springs and drum-type brakes.

The upper part of the crew compartment is fitted with roll-over protection and on the first example there is provision for up to three machine guns (MG) or other weapons.

The first version is in right-hand drive configuration with a 5.56 mm or 7.62 mm MG to the left of the driver, with a similar weapon mounted on the roof to the immediate rear of the driver and commander.

A heavier weapon such as a 12.7 mm MG can be accommodated in the rear, covering a full 360° arc.

The first SOV example is fitted with a front-mounted winch for self-recovery, while a bank of three electrically operated 76 mm grenade launchers are mounted on either side at the front and an additional set installed on either side of the rear load compartment.

The company is quoting a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 3,200 kg. This includes a 1,500 kg payload comprising 80 litres of fuel, the crew, weapons, ammunition, water stowed in containers either side of the rear stowage area, and other essential equipment.

(Jane's)