DSA 2022: Malaysian firm Mildef unveils new 4×4 APC

Malaysian firm Mildef is showcasing its newly developed Rentaka APC (pictured above) at the DSA 2022 exhibition in Kuala Lumpur. (Jon Grevatt/Janes)

Malaysian firm Mildef International Technologies has unveiled a new 4×4 armoured personnel carrier (APC) named Rentaka at the DSA 2022 exhibition in Kuala Lumpur.

The company has outlined plans to upgrade the Malaysian Army‘s ACV‐300 ‘Adnan' tracked armoured combat vehicles (ACV) and to lease its Tarantula 4×4 High Mobility Armoured Vehicle (HMAV) to the same customer.

Mildef representatives told Janes on 29 March that the company has designed and developed its Rentaka prototype for military and paramilitary operations. Officials said the prototype, which incorporates systems from several overseas suppliers, is being trialled with a view to meeting local requirements.

“We see an opportunity to produce and sell about 200 of these vehicles to military and paramilitary customers in Malaysia,” said a Mildef official. He added that the company sees a contract opportunity emerging in Malaysia in about two years. The platform will also be offered for export.

The Rentaka has a length of 6.2 m, a width of 2.4 m, and a laden weight of 8.8 tonnes. The vehicle, which can accommodate 10 personnel including the driver, is powered by a 330 hp V8 turbo diesel engine. The prototype is based on the Ford F-550 chassis.

At the DSA exhibition, Mildef also showcased its Tarantula HMAV. According to company officials, the Malaysian Army is interested in acquiring it on lease. Such a deal would feature 40 vehicles, they said. The lease is under discussion, with a view to finalising a deal in 2023.

Mildef also confirmed to Janes