Malaysia is set to acquire 263 military vehicles worth 164.91 million ringgit ($40.8 million) as part of efforts to strengthen the Malaysian Army’s tactical mobility, reconnaissance, and scouting capabilities.
The procurement package comprises 163 Tedung (Cobra) 4×4 weapon carriers and 100 Kala (Scorpion) high-mobility reconnaissance vehicles.
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin officially unveiled the platforms during a ceremony attended by Malaysia-based industry partner High Point Worldwide, headquartered in Wangsa Maju. The event also marked the first public display of the vehicles in their final green-painted Malaysian Army configuration.
Acquisition Details
The procurement has been divided into two separate contracts.
The first contract, valued at 92.91 million ringgit ($23 million), covers 163 Cobra vehicles. This includes 80 platforms configured to carry automatic grenade launchers and 83 vehicles equipped for heavy machine-gun operations.
The Tedung is derived from the Brazilian Agrale Marruá AM250 double-cab transport and utility vehicle. It is powered by a 170-horsepower Cummins diesel engine and features a full-time 4×4 drivetrain, providing mobility across challenging terrain.
According to the Malaysian government, the vehicle can also be reconfigured for other operational roles, including command-and-control, communications, and artillery or cannon towing, allowing the Army to adapt the platform to changing mission requirements.
The second contract, valued at 72 million ringgit ($17.8 million), covers 100 Kala (Scorpion) reconnaissance vehicles. The platform uses a lightweight, buggy-style chassis designed specifically for infantry reconnaissance and high-mobility missions.
Although the underlying vehicle platform has not been identified, the Kala is powered by a Rotax 900cc ACEI turbocharged engine capable of producing up to 200 horsepower. It can carry four fully equipped soldiers and is designed to maneuver effectively across rugged and difficult terrain.
The acquisition is expected to provide the Malaysian Army with a combination of armed mobility and high-speed reconnaissance capabilities, while also offering flexible vehicle configurations for a range of tactical missions.
