Chilean Navy presents new Kia KLTV 4×4 armored vehicles

The Marine Infantry Detachment (DIM) No. 1 Lynch of the Chilean Navy’s Marine Corps (CIM) showcased the Kia Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) 4×4 light tactical armored vehicles at its facilities in Iquique, Chile.

The KLTV181 transport version arrived in December 2022 and was later joined by KLTV182 reconnaissance vehicles in early 2023.

The exhibition of the new vehicles took place during a visit by the Advanced Course for Non-Commissioned Officers (CASA) of the Armored Cavalry School of the Chilean Army.

The DIM No. 1 Lynch specializes in coastal defense operations and operates a range of vehicles, including the KLTVs.

The KLTV 4×4 family of vehicles was developed to meet the South Korean Armed Forces requirements and is also in service in several other countries.

It includes various versions such as the command version, armored personnel carrier, armored reconnaissance vehicle, multipurpose vehicle, workshop vehicle, and others.

The KLTV 4×4 features a driver and three passengers in the cab, with dimensions of 4,900 mm in length, 2,195 mm in width, and 2,320 mm height.

It has a fording depth of 760 mm, an approach angle of 62°, and an exit angle of 48°. The vehicle can carry 1,000 kg and weighs 5,700 kg.

Powered by a Euro 5 turbocharged diesel engine, the KLTV 4×4 has a maximum power of 225 hp and maximum torque of 51 kg.m.

It has an eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive (AWD), independent suspension, ABS brakes, and a rear camera.

The KLTV182 version features a rotating turret for mounting weapons and protective shields for the gunner.

The addition of the KLTV vehicles enhances the operational capabilities of the DIM No. 1 Lynch in the Joint Northern Theater of Operations, reinforcing their coastal defense missions alongside their existing artillery and light military vehicles.