DSA 2018: Cendana introduces new Special Operation Vehicle.

New Special Operations Forces light vehicles appeared at this year’s edition of Defence Services Asia (DSA), being held from April 16-19 in Kuala Lumpur. Developed by the local company Cendana Auto SDN BHD, the Special Operation Vehicle (SOV) is designed to meet SOF needs deployed in harsh environment such as jungle.

Cendana's SOV vehicles at DSA 2018

According to Cendana, the SOV can carry up to six fully equipped soldiers. It features excellent road holding thanks to a low center of gravity, fiddle brakes system and small turning circle giving rapid steering response. Distribution of 25% of weight over each wheel offers greater traction on all surfaces.

The SOV is powered by a 2.8l 5 Cylinder single stage turbo diesel engine (197hp), allowing the vehicle to reach a maximum speed of 170 km/h. Its modular design allows SOF operators to fit the vehicle with a wide range of sub-systems and weapon systems, such as 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm machine guns, or 40 mm AGL.

It is 4.95 m long, 1.85 m high and 1.85 m wide. The vehicle has a 75% climb capability gradient and a 40% side slope gradient.