FNSS, John Cockerill Defense to showcase armored vehicles at LAAD 2025
An undated photo taken during Turkish FNSS's KAPLAN-MT (Medium Tank) tests shows the tank with Cockerill 3105 turret (Photo via FNSS)
Türkiye’s defense firm FNSS and Belgium’s John Cockerill Defense (JCD) announced their participation in the upcoming LAAD International Defense and Security Fair, set to take place April 1–4 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The event will serve as a global platform for the companies to display their latest advancements in armored vehicle technology to military and defense leaders from around the world.
At stand number S40, FNSS will showcase its KAPLAN Medium Tank / VBC CC, which is fitted with the John Cockerill Defense Cockerill 3105 turret.
John Cockerill Defense, meanwhile, will present the concept model of the KAPLAN tracked armored fighting vehicle / VBC Fuz, equipped with the Cockerill 3030 30mm unmanned turret.
KAPLAN MT medium tank highlights mobility and firepower
Designed by FNSS, the KAPLAN MT (VBC CC) represents a modern approach to medium-weight armored vehicles. Built with indigenous technology, the platform offers a low silhouette and high power-to-weight ratio, enhancing its mobility across challenging terrain.
Equipped with an advanced powerpack, electronic systems, and heavy-duty suspension, the tank supports continuous operations under demanding battlefield conditions.
The vehicle’s design places the engine at the rear, allowing greater acceleration and improved front visibility for the driver while enabling the main gun to achieve superior depression angles.
KAPLAN MT is currently in service with the Indonesian Army and remains Türkiye’s only export contract within the combat tank category.
Cockerill 3105 turret offers artillery-grade performance
The KAPLAN MT is armed with the Cockerill 3105 turret system. Developed by John Cockerill Defense, this system integrates a high-pressure 105mm NATO-standard gun with +42° elevation, enabling both direct and indirect fire—including artillery-like missions up to 10 kilometers (6.21 miles).
The turret also includes an autoloader for 12 rounds, enabling a firing rate of up to six rounds per minute. It has a combat-ready weight of under 6 tons and offers standard protection at level 4, with optional enhancements available.
“These three days at LAAD are an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate the consistency, the performance and the reliability of our Cockerill 3105. Our 105 mm product has many advantages thanks to its ability to elevate its gun to +42 degrees, which allows for indirect ‘artillery’ type fire and an operational anti-drone system. If we add the fact that 105 mm ammunition is readily available on the international market, we have a turret that should appeal to South American countries,” said Frank Jansens, general manager of the weapon systems division of John Cockerill Defense.
Joint display aims to expand regional partnerships
FNSS and JCD view LAAD 2025 as a key opportunity to engage with military representatives, including the Brazilian Armed Forces and international delegations.
“We are excited to make our first appearance at the LAAD Fair,” said FNSS International Business Development Director Melih Kayaalp.
“This event provides a significant platform for us to engage with the Brazilian Armed Forces, Army, Mechanised Infantry and international delegations from across the world. We are eager to demonstrate our commitment to delivering cutting-edge defence solutions,” he added.
