Taiwan Shows new Wheeled Tank Prototype

Taiwan’s Armaments Bureau has revealed the latest version of its domestically developed 105mm “Cheetah” wheeled tank, designated the D3 prototype.

The combat vehicle was presented for the first time on August 14 during the Ministry of National Defense’s “Defense Online” program.

The D3 follows last year’s debut of the D2 model but features refinements aimed at increasing operational effectiveness. While the main configuration and core systems remain consistent with its predecessor, the new variant incorporates a revised hull design, improved armor layout, and a better-balanced suspension system. Its operational range has been extended to 500 kilometers, enabling cross-island deployment without refueling — a capability viewed as critical for rapid reinforcement missions.

According to the Defense Online report, the “Cheetah” is armed with a 105mm rifled gun with an effective range of 2,000 meters, capable of penetrating 500mm of armor. The vehicle can withstand hits from 30mm armor-piercing rounds and can reach speeds exceeding 100 km/h. These performance characteristics are designed to enhance the Army’s mobility, flexibility, and response time in fast-moving operations.

Visuals from the unveiling show the D3 mounted on the second-generation Clouded Leopard M2 wheeled chassis, replacing the platform used on the D2. The updated chassis addresses earlier issues of uneven weight distribution, improving overall handling and stability. Additional changes include new side mirrors for improved situational awareness and altered armor arrangements on the upper turret.

Colonel Yang, the project’s program manager, said the vehicle’s low-recoil gun, combined with an electric servo drive system, provides high accuracy. “The eight-wheel chassis and top speed of over 100 kilometers per hour allow effective use of the domestic road network for rapid cross-regional reinforcement,” Yang said.

The D3’s improvements are aimed at maximizing the tactical advantages of wheeled combat vehicles, including faster repositioning, lower operating costs compared to tracked armor, and the ability to operate effectively on Taiwan’s varied terrain.

The Armaments Bureau confirmed the D3 prototype will be showcased to the public at next month’s Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition, giving attendees a first-hand look at the upgraded platform.