The revived category of the mid-sized battle tanks in recent years has a new member: At the IDEB 2026 defense expo in Bratislava, Slovakia, the Czechoslovak Group (CSG) and the Turkish FNSS Savunma Sistemleri introduced the CFL-120 Karpat. This model combines the FNSS Kaplan-family chassis with the Hitfact MkII 120-mm turret from the Italian Leonardo and is an evolution of the Kaplan MT. The predecessor with a 105-mm main weapon is in service in Indonesia under the name Harimau (in German: Tiger).
From the type presented in 2017, Indonesia intends to procure a total of 412. It weighs 30 to 35 tons with a base protection of NATO STANAG Level 4 (against armor-piercing rounds of caliber 14.5 x 114 mm) and modular add-on armor Level 5 (against 25 x 137 mm). The armament consists of a drawn 105-mm gun from Cockerill with an automatic loader in a two-man turret. A Caterpillar six-cylinder diesel engine with 711 hp provides the vehicle with a road speed governed at 70 km/h.
Karpat to offer superior firepower at a lower weight
The framing data for the Karpat are given similarly, and a range of 450 kilometers is also cited. It is also said to include NBC protection ventilation, a fire suppression system, and air conditioning. The turret features stabilized optics for the commander and gunner with day and night sight channels, a laser rangefinder, and the ability for target handover or for the commander to override the gunner. The vehicle can be equipped with various navigation, communication, and network-ready battle-management systems.
Instead of the 120-mm gun, a 105-mm weapon can again be used, either manually or automatically loaded. It is complemented by a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun and an optional remotely operated weapons station with an additional 7.62 mm machine gun, 12.7 mm, or a 40 mm grenade launcher. CSG intends to use its industrial capacities in Slovakia for production. In addition to the European market, potential customers in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East are also being eyed, seeking superior firepower combined with lower weight and logistical requirements than heavy battle tanks.
