Lima '25 gets first look at Malaysia's homegrown tactical armoured vehicle

New Straits Times

20-05-2025

LANGKAWI: Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd today unveiled Ribat, the country's first high mobility light tactical vehicle (HMLTV) to be fully designed and manufactured by a local defence firm.
The launch, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima '25), positions Mildef as a national leader in land defence and the first Malaysian company to successfully introduce a homegrown tactical armoured vehicle to regional and international markets.
Ribat's namesake was personally given by Anwar, carrying symbolic meaning rooted in the spirit of protecting the homeland with faith, patriotism and technological advancement.
Mildef managing director Datuk Seri Mohd Nizam Kasa said the launch not only highlights the strength of local capabilities but also reflects the government's efforts in building a resilient and independent defence ecosystem.
"Ribat is a product of Malaysian innovation that shows we are not just users of defence technology, but also creators of strategic systems trusted by both the government and the international community," he said.
The vehicle, Nizam said, was developed by Malaysian engineers using industrial-grade facilities in Seremban and Sepang.
Nizam said Ribat was not only suited for domestic use but also meets the operational requirements of overseas missions, making it a competitive and cost-effective option for the government.
"Ribat is one of the best products we've developed. It's highly competitive while promoting cost savings for the government. This vehicle delivers real added value," he said.
He said more than 60 per cent of the vehicle's components had been localised, with the engine being the only major part sourced from abroad.
"In terms of design and commercial development, everything was done locally. The vehicle has been fully designed, developed, and patented in Malaysia.
"Ribat also had undergone extensive testing and validation processes in collaboration with the Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence (Stride) and the Malaysian Army to ensure its performance and reliability.
"It features a modular ballistic protection system and is designed for missions including patrol, convoy and special operations," he said.
Mildef at the same event, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indonesia's leading defence firm PT Pindad opening doors for export opportunities, technology transfers and system integration between the two nations.
Mildef also signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the Defence Ministry's Stride.
"The MoA focuses on the local development of two more tactical vehicle platforms.
"Strategic cooperation with Stride is key to establishing Malaysia as a regional hub for defence research and development," Nizam said.
Mildef is also expected to sign a contract during Lima 25 to supply 136 units of its Tarantula armoured vehicle to the Malaysian Army.