Uzbekistan has unveiled three NATO-standard military vehicles at the IDEX-2025 international defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi. Among the showcased equipment are the Arslon 8x8 and Arslon 6x6 armored personnel carriers, along with the To‘fon (Thunder) self-propelled howitzer.
This marks a turning point for Uzbekistan, which has traditionally relied on Soviet-era military technology. By developing modern armored vehicles and artillery systems that meet NATO standards, the country is expanding its defense capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
The Arslon 8x8 is an advanced armored personnel carrier designed to address the shortcomings of Soviet-era vehicles. Unlike the older BTR-series, which prioritized mass production over durability, the Arslon incorporates composite armor that meets NATO STANAG VI standards, offering superior protection against explosives and small arms fire.
Operated by a three-person crew (commander, driver, gun operator), it can transport up to eight soldiers. It is equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon and a 12.7mm secondary machine gun, capable of firing 200-800 rounds per minute.
The Arslon 8x8 features a Remote Weapon Station (RWS) with an electro-optical targeting system, allowing for automated enemy tracking and 360° situational awareness. Powered by a 600-horsepower engine, it can reach speeds of 100 km/h with a range of 700 km. At 32 tons, the Arslon 8x8 is significantly heavier than Russia’s BTR-82 (15.4 tons) and the Soviet BMP-2 (14.3 tons), highlighting its reinforced protection and advanced technology.
A more compact variant, the Arslon 6x6, retains many of the capabilities of its larger counterpart but is designed for enhanced maneuverability, making it ideal for urban combat and narrow terrain.
It is equipped with the same 30mm cannon and RWS system as the Arslon 8x8. Powered by a 450-horsepower engine, it has a top speed of 110 km/h. Weighing 22 tons, it is lighter than the Arslon 8x8, making it more agile while maintaining strong protection.
The To‘fon (Thunder) represents a leap forward in Uzbekistan’s artillery capabilities. It is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer mounted on a truck chassis, eliminating the logistical challenges of traditional towed artillery. It can fire rocket-assisted shells up to 50 km, surpassing the Russian Malva system (29 km), and is capable of firing seven rounds per minute.
The To‘fon (Thunder) uses GPS and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) for precision strikes and has an armored cabin for 4-6 personnel, meeting NATO safety standards. It is powered by a 335-horsepower engine, allowing it to reach speeds of 100 km/h with a total weight of 27 tons.
The development of these advanced systems signals Uzbekistan’s growing defense industry. The Defense Industry Corporation, operating under the Ministry of Defense, has established a production cluster integrating state-owned and private enterprises. This approach enables continuous innovation and reduces reliance on foreign military suppliers.
By adopting NATO standards, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a regional leader in defense technology while ensuring greater security and self-sufficiency.
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