On August 14, 2025, Taiwan’s Armaments Bureau showcased the latest variant of its 105mm wheeled armored fighting vehicle, designated the D3 prototype, during the Ministry of National Defense’s “Defense Online” broadcast. The vehicle is part of Project Cheetah, a defense program launched in 2019 to enhance the mobility, autonomy, and rapid response capabilities of Taiwan’s ground forces.
Earlier models, the D1 and D2, were jointly developed by the Armaments Bureau, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST), and multiple local factories specializing in system integration, chassis manufacturing, and munitions. Around 89% of their components were sourced domestically, underscoring Taiwan’s commitment to self-reliance.
The D2 variant, revealed in June 2024, featured a new 8×8 chassis from the Clouded Leopard series, a hydropneumatic suspension system, and a manned turret armed with a 105mm rifled gun compatible with ammunition from Taiwan’s M60A3 and CM-11 tanks. It also carried a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun and a 12.7mm remote weapon station serving as the commander’s sight, enabling “hunter-killer” capabilities. Testing confirmed the vehicle could penetrate 500mm of armor at 2,000 meters while on the move, operate effectively across difficult terrain, and perform in all weather conditions.
The new D3 prototype incorporates several refinements: a reduced height of under three meters (down from 3.3 meters), improved weight distribution by repositioning the turret further to the rear, and the adoption of the second-generation Clouded Leopard M2 chassis to address stability issues. The turret now features optimized armor protection, while redesigned side mirrors improve crew situational awareness.
Retaining its low-recoil 105mm gun with an electric servo drive, the D3 can reach speeds over 100 km/h and operate up to 500 kilometers without refueling—allowing rapid redeployment across Taiwan. It will be publicly displayed at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition next month.
Operationally, the D3 fits into Taiwan’s asymmetric defense strategy by providing high mobility, fast repositioning, and strong direct fire support without the logistical burden of heavy tanks. Its wheeled configuration makes it well-suited for “shoot-and-scoot” tactics, coastal defense, and hit-and-run ambushes against invading forces. While the Army has noted that a 120mm main gun may be necessary to match modern lethality standards, the D3 represents a significant step in domestic armored vehicle development.
The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait, with China increasing its military activities near Taiwan through frequent air and naval patrols, amphibious drills, and aggressive rhetoric. By investing in agile, cost-effective, and locally built systems like the Cheetah D3, Taiwan aims to strengthen its deterrence and resilience against potential aggression.
