Taiwan’s Armaments Department has officially unveiled the D3 prototype of the domestically developed 105 mm “Cheetah” wheeled tank, marking another step forward in the country’s ground forces modernization program.
The new version was presented on August 14 during the Ministry of National Defense’s “Defense Online” program, succeeding the D2 model revealed last year. While retaining its main configuration and core systems, the D3 introduces significant improvements aimed at boosting operational effectiveness.
Among the updates are a redesigned hull, an improved armor layout, and a more balanced suspension system for better stability and handling. Its operational range has been extended to 500 kilometers, enabling island-to-island deployment without refueling — a capability considered vital for rapid reinforcement missions.
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According to Defense Online, the “Cheetah” D3 is armed with a 105 mm rifled gun with an effective range of 2,000 meters and capable of penetrating 500 mm of armor. The vehicle can withstand hits from 30 mm armor-piercing rounds and reach speeds exceeding 100 km/h, providing high mobility and reduced response times in rapid operations.
The released images show the D3 mounted on the second-generation Clouded Leopard M2 wheeled chassis, replacing the D2 platform. This change addresses previous weight distribution issues and improves handling. Other modifications include new side mirrors for enhanced situational awareness and altered armor arrangements on the turret.
According to Colonel Yang, the project manager, the low-recoil gun combined with an electric servo drive system ensures high accuracy. “The eight-wheeled chassis and top speed of over 100 km/h allow effective use of the domestic road network for rapid inter-regional reinforcement,” Yang stated.
The Armaments Department confirmed that the D3 prototype will be showcased to the public next month at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition, offering specialists and visitors a closer look at the upgraded platform.
Source and images: Liberty Times | Ministry of National Defense, ROC (Taiwan). This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
