Yea…. That’s a Kia

First entering production in 1980, the Kia K311 is a multipurpose cargo truck initially developed for the ROK Army. Initially developed to replace the American-made Dodge M37, the current variant of the K311 (K311A1) is powered by a Hyundai/Mitsubishi Fuso D4DA in-line 4-cylinder diesel engine, which cranks out a respectable 130 hp with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Capabilities and Uses

It has a capacity of 1,530 kg (paved) or 1,330 kg (unpaved) and can reach a top speed of 100 km per hour. Not to mention, the vehicle is used in a number of roles within the South Korean Army, such as an Ambulance, Electronic Weather Monitor Mounted Vehicle, and there was even an attempt to use the platform as a basis for an MLRS system.

Export Success

But what really makes this Korean Truck special, is that it’s one of the first successful exports for the Korean Defense industry. Since 1980, the K311 (known as the KM450) has been exported to numerous countries around the world, specifically in Africa and Asia. The largest number outside of Korea is operated by the Philippine Armed Forces.