A new armored platform from a Czech firm and a Turkey-based company is packing the punch of a main battle tank inside a smaller, more mobile frame.
Displayed at the IDEB 2026 defense exhibition, the Czechoslovak Group (CSG) and FNSS’ CFL-120 Karpat is armed with a 120mm main gun compatible with NATO-standard ammunition.
Secondary armament includes a twin 7.62mm machine gun mounted on a remote weapon station, with the option to swap in a 12.7mm heavy machine gun or a 40mm automatic grenade launcher depending on mission requirements.
The turret design keeps ammunition stored outside the crew compartment, a move intended to improve survivability in the event of a hit. It also supports both automatic and manual loading modes.
For protection, the Karpat features modular armor options, including provisions for protection against weapons of mass destruction, an automatic fire suppression system, and onboard climate control designed to support sustained operations.
The vehicle’s digital architecture enables combat management and laser warning integration, and is compatible with active protection systems aimed at countering anti-tank missiles and loitering munitions.
“This cooperation with CSG reflects a shared understanding of the requirements of the modern battlefield environment and the importance of building resilient industrial partnerships,” FNSS CEO Selim Baybaş said.
Going the Distance
With a combat weight not exceeding 34 tonnes (74,957 pounds), the CFL-120 can reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers (43 miles) per hour, placing it in a similar mobility class to some main battle tanks.
It has an operational range of around 450 kilometers (280 miles), powered by a diesel engine and an automatic transmission.
The tank’s rear-mounted powerpack design is said to improve performance across rough terrain, soft ground, and other challenging environments.
The companies said the vehicle is built with an emphasis on crew protection and operational flexibility.
A European Effort
The CFL-120 integrates a slew of European technologies, including an Italian-made MKII turret from defense giant Leonardo.
Its tracked chassis is also reportedly based on a Turkish design.
Production is set to take place at CSG’s facilities in Slovakia, with full technology transfer and participation from Slovak suppliers expected.
“Our shared objective is to offer modern and competitive vehicles for customers in Europe and other regions while further developing CSG’s industrial capabilities in the field of combat vehicles,” CSG Defence CEO Jan Marinov stated.
