Image source: topwar.ru
The Kazakh army is receiving a new Taimas 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle, created by placing the VN-11 turret (from Chinese developer Norinco) on the Arma 8x8 chassis (from the Turkish company Otokar). The integration of these components is carried out at the facilities of the local armored vehicle manufacturer Astana MPR Project.
For the first time, Taimas was presented at the Victory Day parade in Astana in May 2025. This armored vehicle can accommodate up to 11 military personnel and is capable of overcoming water obstacles by swimming, despite its solid weight of up to 30 tons and dimensions (7.85 x 2.8 x 3 m). The engine power is up to 600 hp, driving speed is up to 110 km/ h on the road, power reserve is up to 800 km. The armor is capable of withstanding the detonation of 10 kg of explosives. The machine has anti-radiation protection.
The turret houses a 100-mm rifled cannon from the ZPL04 family, capable of firing guided projectiles, and a 30-mm automatic cannon paired with it (sometimes called ZLB02, sometimes ZPT-99), as well as two IR-guided HJ-12 ATGM ready for launch, capable of hitting targets from above. Optionally, a remote-controlled module with a 7.62mm machine gun can be installed.
- said the contractor.
Image source: topwar.ru
According to the developer, the 30-mm cannon is used for suppression at a distance of up to 2 km, the 100-mm cannon for more accurate direct fire and guided projectiles, and the HJ-12 for high-precision shooting at armored vehicles at a distance of up to 4 km. Before opting for Chinese weapons, Kazakhstan tested the Arma chassis with turrets from the BMP-3 and Nefer from Aselsan.
According to the manufacturer, the deal for the production of machines designed to replace the Soviet BMP-2 provides for the transfer of technology, which allows the plant in Astana to establish a full production cycle – from cutting armored steel to final assembly.
A number of Kazakh publications claim that some officials are lobbying for the interests of the Turkish defense industry, despite the fact that the local production base is able to produce armored vehicles on its own, for example, at the facilities of the Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering plant. In particular, the Barys 8x8 APC, based on the Singapore Terrex platform, is manufactured here.
