DSEI 2025: Kia Tasman versatile vehicle platform bridging military requirements and blackout control.

At DSEI 2025, Kia Special Vehicle presents the Tasman, a platform developed to serve both military and commercial requirements. The vehicle is introduced as a pickup-based solution designed to adapt to multiple missions through modular design, a high-performance powertrain, and extensive customization options. With its debut, Kia highlights a model that evolves beyond standard utility to address the varied demands of defense and civilian sectors alike.
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Features specifically tailored for defense applications include blackout control, snorkel, reinforced steel bumper, antenna systems, winch, auxiliary electric power supply, electronic locking differential, troop seating, and a walk-through van option. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Tasman is described as a product of more than five decades of experience in the development of special-purpose vehicles. It is intended for challenging terrains, having undergone extensive durability and performance testing. For military operations, the vehicle is configured in several variants, including command vehicles and tactical pickup trucks. Features specifically tailored for defense applications include blackout control, snorkel, reinforced steel bumper, antenna systems, winch, auxiliary electric power supply, electronic locking differential, troop seating, and a walk-through van option. These specifications are designed to meet operational requirements in diverse environments.

The platform’s adaptability is emphasized through its derivative versions. The Tasman can be configured as a van body, offering flexibility for use as ambulances or mobile repair units, or as a flatbed to carry military systems. A bare chassis option is also available, allowing direct integration of specialized equipment. The overall design supports flexible installation of mission-specific payloads, making the Tasman suitable for roles that range from troop transport to logistics support.

Beyond defense applications, Kia positions the Tasman for wider utility across commercial and industrial domains. Its robust chassis, modular framework, and adaptable powertrain enable quick customization for use as emergency response vehicles, municipal service trucks, armored transport, snowplows, and patrol units. Conceptual illustrations at DSEI show the platform in configurations including police vehicles, safari vehicles, and armored personnel carriers. While these designs are presented for demonstration, Kia notes that production versions may vary.

Technical specifications of the Tasman include an overall length of 5,410 mm, width of 1,930 mm, and height of 1,870 mm, with a wheelbase of 3,270 mm. It offers a payload capacity of 1.1 tons, a gross vehicle weight of 3.25 tons, and towing capacity of 3.5 tons. The vehicle is powered by a 2.2-liter engine producing 210 horsepower and 45 kgf-m of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It complies with Euro 5 emission standards. Off-road capabilities are reinforced by a ground clearance of 224 mm, a fording depth of 800 mm at 7 kph, an approach angle of 29 degrees, and a departure angle of 25 degrees.

Kia underlines that the Tasman’s specifications reflect special-purpose models and may vary depending on the market. All data is presented as subject to change according to further development or environmental requirements. The company also highlights that the Tasman program reflects its broader strategic focus on mobility solutions extending across both defense and civilian applications.

The introduction of the Tasman at DSEI 2025 underscores Kia’s commitment to expanding its presence in the military and dual-use vehicle sector. As a manufacturer with long-standing expertise in specialized vehicles, Kia leverages its industrial base to develop platforms that respond to diverse operational needs. The Tasman illustrates how the company seeks to balance military readiness with commercial adaptability, contributing to the proliferation of vehicles capable of serving multiple roles across global markets.

Written by Matt Delvoye - Defense Analyst, Army Recognition

Matt Delvoye holds degrees in political science from the University of Liège and the University of Brussels, with a specialization in international relations as well as defense and security policy. He works as a defense analyst at Army Recognition, where he covers international defense events and provides daily reporting on military equipment and industry developments.