IndoDefence 2018: Indonesian artillery unveils experimental buggy for hostile fire detection.

The Indonesian artillery has developed an ultralight 4x2 buggy equipped with a detection system locating enemy fire with acoustic sensors. At IndoDefence 2018, this projected initiated in 2016 was displayed under the name Komodo.

The Indonesian artillery's experimental buggy developed for hostile fire detection and firing control (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Six prototypes have already undergone trying tests on jungle trails completely filled with liquid mud, as images shown on the artillery's booth. However, the ground clearance and tire dimension will be increased to further improve off-road performances which are already impressive. The power necessary to operate the acoustic sensors and tracking system mounted on a mast at the rear of the buggy is provided by a battery that can be reloaded by solar panels mounted on the buggy's roof.

The engine is a four-stroke, 250cc gasoline one, developing 17.6 Nm at 5,500 rpm, coupled to an automatic transmission. The buggy can reach 60 km/h on hard surface but its light weight (320 kg, with a 250 kg payload) makes it a very mobile vehicle in jungle environment too. In case of need, a small electric winch is available.

The detection work of enemy fire required by the artillery can be assisted by a fixed-wing drone operated by the passenger of the two-crew vehicle, a drone that can be stored on the roof, above the solar panels.

Komodo buggy during testing by the Indonesian artillery (Picture source: Indonesian army)