Indo Defence 2025: Indonesia’s SSE reveals hybrid amphibious P8 light tank for agile island defense.

On June 11, 2025, at Indo Defense 2025, Indonesia’s defense firm SSE (PT SSE Defence), headquartered in Bandung, revealed the full technical profile and combat concept behind its new P8 Light Tank, a hybrid-powered, amphibious tracked vehicle engineered for rapid deployment and archipelagic combat. Designed in response to Indonesia’s complex geographical challenges, the P8 introduces a modern approach to light armored warfare by combining high mobility, modular firepower, and sustainable hybrid propulsion. 
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SSE’s P8 Light Tank represents more than a new vehicle, it embodies a strategic adaptation to the operational realities of island and littoral defense (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The P8 Light Tank from SSE Defence features a lightweight tracked chassis designed for maneuverability across varied and challenging terrains such as jungle, marshland, or mountainous zones. The 12-ton class vehicle is powered by a diesel-electric hybrid system delivering 450 horsepower, achieving a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 56 HP/ton. This propulsion system not only enhances acceleration and fuel efficiency but also reduces acoustic and thermal signatures, ideal for stealthy operations. The P8’s amphibious capability, coupled with its air transportability by C-130 Hercules, marks it as a rapid reaction force multiplier tailored for archipelagic deployment, particularly in Southeast Asia.

The turret of the P8 is a core element of its operational identity. It is equipped with a remotely operated 30mm autocannon, capable of engaging light armored vehicles, personnel, and structures in urban environments. Mounted on the turret’s right side are two launchers, likely designed for anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), giving the P8 a standoff capability against heavier targets. The turret also likely integrates a coaxial machine gun and is fitted with a range of sensors, including day/night optics and possibly a panoramic sight for the commander. Several visible sensor housings suggest the integration of fire-and-forget missile systems or thermal-assisted targeting, and potentially even radar or laser warning receivers that could be part of an active protection system. The compact, angular structure of the turret, with no visible hatches, indicates that it is unmanned or remotely controlled, a feature that enhances crew survivability while also reducing the vehicle’s radar signature.

Development of the P8 reflects an adaptive and localized process. SSE began with a chassis philosophy favoring mobility over heavy armor, paired with a highly modular turret. The result is a platform that prioritizes digital control systems, stealth geometry, and future-proof integration of networked combat solutions. While still early in its operational history, the P8 has reportedly undergone internal trials and is expected to be offered first to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), with potential for export to nations facing similar geographical constraints.

Compared to other light tanks in the global market, such as the General Dynamics Griffin II or China's Type 15, the P8 offers a unique value proposition through its amphibious capabilities and hybrid drivetrain. The Griffin II, while heavily armed, lacks amphibious utility and hybrid propulsion. China's Type 15, though optimized for high-altitude combat, is more conventional in its engineering. The P8, by contrast, combines drive-by-wire steering, hydro-pneumatic suspension, and modular architecture into a sub-15-ton platform. Historically, it follows the logic of earlier vehicles like France’s AMX-13, designed for strategic mobility and export flexibility, but updates this philosophy with modern automation and powertrain technologies.

Strategically, the P8 supports Indonesia’s doctrine of archipelagic defense, enabling quick-response forces to secure coastal and remote areas with minimal logistical burden. For ASEAN militaries and other island nations, it offers a platform adapted to asymmetric and hybrid threats across multiple terrains, urban, littoral, and inland. Its compact design and digital systems suggest high potential for integration with drone systems and command networks. Geopolitically, the P8 illustrates Indonesia’s ambition to establish a self-reliant defense industry and become a serious player in the regional arms market.

SSE’s P8 Light Tank represents more than a new vehicle, it embodies a strategic adaptation to the operational realities of island and littoral defense. By combining amphibious capability, hybrid propulsion, remote firepower, and modular systems, the P8 signals a move toward more agile, digitally integrated ground forces. In a region increasingly shaped by rapid response and maritime geography, the P8 may well define the next generation of light armored warfare in Southeast Asia.