'Korean Humvee' Poised to Replace Land Rover in British Army
South Korea's Kia is preparing to enter the European military vehicle market in a big way, positioning its Light Tactical Vehicle (KLTV) for a $1.1 billion procurement program announced by the UK Ministry of Defence.
The UK plans to replace its aging Land Rover Defender fleet with a major modernization effort, with 1,400 vehicles across 12 categories to be fielded between 2027 and 2033. The tender, scheduled for release on December 1, has attracted global attention from established players in the defense automotive sector.
According to South Korean defense officials quoted by Hankyung TV, the UK invited Kia and other manufacturers earlier this year to submit bids for the program.
"KIA is expected to participate with its KLTV, often referred to as the 'Korean Humvee,'" a South Korean military source told the broadcaster.
The KLTV, officially designated K151, has gained traction in the international market, with recent deliveries to Poland, Chile, Nigeria, Mali, and Turkmenistan. In 2023, Kia signed a $310 million deal to supply 400 KLTVs to Poland, signaling the company's growing presence in the European defense sector.
A Kia spokesperson told Hankyung TV, "Nothing has been finalized at this time." However, the company plans to showcase its KLTV at the DSEI 2025 international defense exhibition in London this September, which industry analysts consider a strong indication of its intention to compete aggressively for the British tender.
The KLTV is a 4x4 light tactical vehicle designed for mobility and survivability in combat zones. It is often compared to the US military's Humvee, but is praised for its more affordable price and superior performance in some aspects. The armored variant of the KLTV reportedly costs about half the price of a fully equipped Humvee, making it attractive to militaries seeking a cost-effective solution. Kia's tactical vehicles feature a reinforced frame derived from the company's Mohave SUV platform and are powered by military-tuned engines that deliver 20% more horsepower and top speed than American vehicles, according to company data.
In addition to the KLTV, Kia is expanding its military vehicle lineup with products such as the Tasman pickup truck and a hydrogen-powered ATV based on Hyundai's Nexo fuel cell platform. The Tasman, designed for dual civilian and military applications, is expected to debut at upcoming international defense exhibitions in Turkey, Poland, and the UK.
Although competition for the UK contract is expected to be fierce, with Land Rover, Jeep, and Volkswagen all reportedly considering bids, analysts believe Kia's proven track record and competitive pricing give it a strong chance of success.
The global military vehicle market is projected to surpass $69 billion by 2025, growing to nearly $100 billion by the early 2030s.
