Turkish Land Platforms
TNMBT Altay Project
SSM signed Altay Project Phase I contract with Otokar, which covers the design, development, production, test and qualification of the Turkish National Main Battle Tank (TNMBT) Prototypes in 2008. The prime contractor Otokar’s subcontractors in this Project are MKE, Aselsan, Roketsan, MTU/RENK and Rotem (South Korea). Within the scope of the Project, MKE designs and produces 120 mm 55L Main Gun System; Roketsan shall design, develop and produce Modular Armour Package; Aselsan designs and produces Fire Control System and Command Control Communication Information System; MTU/RENK, shall develop and produce 1500hp Euro-Power-Pack. Besides, Rotem – South Korean Company – provides technical consultancy to MKE and Roketsan in this Project. According to Project Implementation Schedule, Phase I of the Project lasts for 78 months and consists of the following 3 stages: Stage I: Conceptual Design; Stage II: Detailed Design; Stage III: Prototype Development, Qualification and Acceptance. Following the completion of “Conceptual Design Phase” in 2010, the mock-up of Altay tank was introduced to public in IDEF 2011.
The “Preliminary Design Phase” taking part within the scope of the second critical “Detailed Design Phase” was completed within the last quarter of 2011. During this phase, the production of preliminary prototypes was initiated in parallel. In Altay Project, two preliminary test prototypes, Mobility Test Rig (MTR) and Firing Test Rig (FTR) will be developed and tested. According to the test results of these Test Prototypes, the design of Altay tank will be upgraded and Detailed Design Stage will be completed. MTR prototype was completed in October 2011 and the test phase was initiated. MTR covered over 2000 km within a month after the completion of prototype. FTR prototype was completed before the planned date; the firing control system and gun of which was planned to be mounted at the end of 2012 and set its stall out in the presentation of Altay Main Battle tanks’ prototypes at Otokar facilities on November 2012. The firing tests of FTR prototype made in the first months of 2013. On the other hand, the tests will be conducted for the two prototypes and the outcomes of trial-and-error and performance verification will apply to the main prototypes. As per the third and last phase of Altay Project namely “Prototype Development and Qualification”, the Firing Tests with FTR preliminary prototype are continuing as per the project schedule at Şereflikoçhisar. On the other hand, the production studies of PV1 prototype, which are under the scope of Phase III, are also ongoing. The production of such prototype is planned to be completed in the first half of 2014.The production studies of PV2 prototype, which have been initiated in September 2013, are planned to be completed in the second half of 2014. The qualified prototype armoured package of Altay tank, the Armour Qualification of which was completed in 2013 summer, is planned to be delivered to Otokar in 2014 and the final tests are planned to be performed after its assembly to Altay tank in 2014. The System Qualification Tests are planned to be performed by SSM and Land Forces committees as per the project schedule after the production of all prototypes is completed. The production of all prototypes and implementation of all tests are planned to be completed at the end of 2015. Following the delivery of four prototypes and submission of technical data package to the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries, the Altay Project will be concluded. Depending on the success of the produced prototypes and based on the needs of Turkish Armed Forces and facilities of the period, the mass production in Altay Project will commence in 2016.
The Future of Main Battle Tank; Altay
Altay is a third-generation main battle tank and it is named in honour of Army General Fahrettin Altay (1880–1974) who commanded the 5th Cavalry Corps in the final stage of the Turkish War of Independence. The front side of the tank will have special modular reactive composite armour protection. Altay will be protected against chemical, biological and radioactive (CBR) attacks. The tank is projected to have a 120 mm smoothbore gun in 360 degree powered traversing turret allowing for unfettered engagement of targets from any angle. TNMBT will use an advanced computerised Aselsan’s Volkan-III modular fire control systems (FCS). Aselsan has successfully completed the development and started the serial production of Volkan FCS for Leopard 1 upgrade in 2006. Volkan FCS provides MTB’s; High First Round Hit Probability, during day and night under adverse battlefield conditions, even while the tank/target or both are the move. The Volkan system includes the following components; Gunner’s mirror stabilised periscope system; Commander’s control display; providing the commander with access to thermal and Tv images from the gunner periscope. The commander also has independent view selection and control of the thermal imager.
Tank Command Unit: Providing the gunner with an interface with the fire- control computer, view/control of gun laying, access to sensor, range-finder, ammunition and barrel life information, adjustment of stabilisation, line-of-fire and line-of-sight. Fire-Control Computer; Providing ballistic calculation for the main and coaxial guns, automatic super elevation and lead angle determination without removing the line of sight from the target, two axis gun stabilisation, line-of-fire and line-of-sight synchronisation, automatic target tracking and correction for inclination. The system is based on an open architecture design for future upgrades and the introduction of new ammunition types Ammunition selection unit: With provision for five ammunition types, fire/safe modes and loading/ammo ready modes, Ammunition temperature sensor, Meteorological sensor: Determining wind direction and velocity, barometric pressure and weather conditions Inclinometer; Determining yaw and pitch inclination, Turret azimuth and elevation position encoders, Global positioning and north finding system, Driver’s image intensifier periscope, Gunner’s additional command unit, Power distribution and cabling.
Tracked Armoured Vehicles
ACV15
The Armoured Combat Vehicle15 (ACV15) was developed by FNSS to meet the requirement of the Turkish Army for a heavily armoured vehicle in the 13-15t class that is able to operate alongside tanks in a combined arms team. The platform design allows integration of different subsystems to meet different roles. The Advanced Armoured Personnel Carrier (AAPC) chassis forms the base vehicle for all other members of the ACV family, which includes an IFV available with a variety of weapon stations and turrets up to 90mm, command post, ambulance, repair and recovery and 120mm mortar carrier. The ACV15 is a fully tracked (five road wheels), low-silhouette vehicle capable of high-speed operations in desert conditions, cross-country and on road. Access to the vehicle is through a hydraulically operated ramp, with personnel door, on the rear of the vehicle or through the driver and commander’s hatches on the top deck. A large cargo hatch cover is provided in the top deck behind the weapon station opening. Two armoured fuel compartments are located in the rear of the vehicle for weight distribution and crew safety. The hull is constructed of ballistic aluminium plate. The engine and the driver and commander’s compartments in the forward area utilise about half of the space, while a weapon station opening located on the right middle section, and the personnel compartment in the rear, utilise the remaining half. FNSS produced 2,249 ACVs for Turkey and exported others to Malaysia, the Philippines and the UAE.
ACV19
The Armoured Combat Vehicle19 (ACV19), developed and manufactured by FNSS, is a family of 15-19t class vehicles derived from the successful FNSS ACV15. Besides offering performance improvements, the ACV19 offers commonality with the ACV15 family. The ACV19 has been sold to the Royal Saudi Land Forces in a tactical command post configuration, and a 120mm mortar vehicle has been built for the Malaysian Army. The primary differences between the ACV19 and ACV15 are a longer hull with six road wheels, heavy-duty final drives and more aggressive suspension. The AC19 offers a larger volume under armour and more payload capacity than the ACV15, and mobility equal to or better than an MBT. The ACV19 chassis can carry high payloads such as two-man turrets or 120mm mortars, and still provide the same performance as a standard ACV15 without a turret. The ACV19 family includes a Tracked Logistic Carrier (TLC), which retains the front of the vehicle with the driver on the left and power pack on the right, with additional space to the immediate rear for the vehicle commander and one additional crew member; behind the crew compartment is a flatbed with tie-down points, as well as drop sides and drop tailgate, which can be quickly removed if required. The TLC can carry a maximum payload of 6t. It has an HIAB 182R hydraulic crane fitted on the roof of the crew compartment to assist in loading and unloading cargo. This can be operated by remote control up to 1m away and can lift 1.6t at a reach of 3.3m. The ACV19 chassis features a unique, spaced laminated armour system combining steel and aluminium technology to provide a high level of protection against direct KE threats. The hull provides protection against mines.
ACV-30
The ACV30 (Medium Weight) platform is the general name for the 20-30 ton class modern high performance family of vehicles, derived from the highly successful FNSS ACV15 and ACV19. The ACV30 vehicle has a greater suspension capacity and improved power pack performance offering significant more power capacity than ACV 15 and ACV 19. This additional performance means that the ACV30 platform is able to carry significant higher payloads which include weapon stations mounting 105 mm guns and heavy air defence systems. ACV30 platform chassis is provided with a unique, space laminated armour system combining steel and aluminium technology to provide a high level of armour protection against direct KE threats. Also, the hull provides protection against mines. The vehicle configuration(s) can be tailored in accordance with customer operational requirements into a true family of vehicles which can be utilized by cavalry, infantry, MBTs support vehicles and artillery
Tulpar
Otokar aims to put an end to foreign source dependency in tracked vehicles with Tulpar designed by Otokar engineers. Tulpar, the intellectual rights of which are owned by Otokar, was designed in equivalent capacity and characteristics with the armoured combat vehicles used in vehicle programs of the operations conducted in NATO countries. Tulpar, named after the legendary winged horse in the Epic of Manas, was developed in a way that it could function with the main battle tanks that cover the demands of the 21st century. Tulpar’s first prototype weighs 35 tons and it can be manufactured in a scale of 25-45 tons depending on the tracked armoured combat vehicle user’s demands. The Otokar Tulpar is motorized by a Scania DI 16 turbocharged diesel engine developing 800 hp. at 2,150 rpm coupled to an 32 speeds automatic transmission SAPA SG-850. Tulpar can run at a maximum road speed of 70 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 600 km.Tulpar can cross a vertical step of 800 mm and a trench with a maximum width of 2,6 m. The vehicle is able to negotiate slope up to 60% and side slope to 40%.Tulpar, having three various power groups depending on the combat trains and which could be used by transfer mechanisms, bears modular armour structure and has the top ballistic and mine protection among its category. Besides, this armour structure can be configured and scaled depending on the size of the threat. The prominent subsystems of the vehicle such as the suspension, final drive, and track beam were entirely designed by Otokar.
Tulpar is capable of carrying a full rifle squad and it can be used in various configurations namely Armoured Weapons Carrier Vehicle (OMTAS Antitank Missile Carrier), Combat Vehicle (25mm Turret System), Armoured Engineering Squad Vehicle, Armoured Reconnaissance Vehicle, Armoured Command Control Vehicle, Armoured Command Post Vehicle, Armoured Maintenance and Rescue Vehicle, Armoured Mortar Carrier, Armoured Ambulance. The qualification tests of this new generation vehicle are planned to be completed in 2014 and thus shall be ready for mass production. Tulpar was unveiled at the first time in IDEF 13’ by Otokar.
LAWC-T Light Armoured Weapon Carrier Concept
The Light Armoured Weapon Carrier Concept (LAWC-T) platform was developed by FNSS to meet the requirements for a new agile armoured combat vehicle that can be configured to meet many different mission requirements such as: anti-armour, fire support and reconnaissance roles. The vehicle can be fitted with a variety of turrets/weapon stations depending on the customer’s requirements such as manned and unmanned turrets fitted with rapid firing cannons from 25-40mm, as well as Anti Armour (ATGM) turrets mounting a variety of missiles.
The vehicle is also ideally suited for missions such as Reconnaissance and Surveillance and can be integrated with elevated platforms fitted with state-of-the-art Thermal Imagers, Long Range CCD cameras and Laser Rangefinders, making the platform a dedicated reconnaissance vehicle. LAWC-T is a fully tracked, low silhouette vehicle. The power pack is located at the rear of the platform enabling the driver and commander to sit side by side in the front providing a very high level of local situation awareness and high field of view with the help of eight frontal periscopes. The rear power pack configuration also enables a low thermal and noise signature.
LAWC-T in the anti-armour role has a maximum crew of five. The crew enters and leaves via a clam-shell type door at the rear, two side doors and through the wide commander and driver hatches at the front. The vehicle has a 4-stroke diesel engine satisfying a minimum power-to-weight ratio of 25 hp/ton. Suspension is of the torsion bar type with either side having five dual road wheels, drive sprocket at the front, and idler at the rear and three shock absorbers on each side. The vehicle can be equipped with either conventional T130 or T150 tracks or rubber band tracks. Steering is of the hydro-static type.
LAWC-T has a ballistic protection of NATO STANAG 4569 Level 4, providing immunity against 14.5mm heavy machine gun ammunition. The well-sloped glacis plate and the vertical hull sides allow additional armour to be fitted if required. The Standard mine protection meets STANAG 4569 Level 3a.
The vehicle is configured with all-around thermal/day cameras for driving and providing situational awareness to commander and driver. A modern open architecture system enables different electronic subsystems integration and allows future upgrades to be applied. LAWC-T platform has a high degree of mobility allowing the vehicle to keep pace with latest main battle tanks (MBTs) both on-road and cross country conditions. The vehicle is deployable by C130 aircraft as well as railway and sea transport vessels. FNSS unveiled the new concept of LAWC-T mock-up in IDEF 13.
Tactical Wheeled Armoured Vehicles
Pars
FNSS has developed a new generation of wheeled AFVs in 6x6 and 8x8 configurations with a special emphasis on mobility, protection, payload and growth potential. Fnss has named the vehicle Pars, which in Turkish means Leopard. Pars is designed not only to have a high level of ballistic and mine resistance, but also carry a variety of weapon stations and provide a high internal volume, which allows for a full complement of infantry soldiers with all of their equipment. One of the most significant features of the Pars vehicle is situational awareness. A unique feature is that the vehicle commander and driver sit side-by-side. For enhanced visibility, there are two thermal cameras and two optical cameras at the front and rear. An important feature of Pars is its very high mobility that comes from its newly developed active pneumatic independent suspension system. The vehicles are equipped with independent suspension at all wheel stations, providing commonality between each station, thereby reducing logistics and improving life-cycle costs. Pars’s centralised engine location, made possible by the suspension design, provides for a very adequate passage to and from the rear of the vehicle. The modular design of the Pars will incorporate external turrets or weapon stations depending on user requirements. It could be a one or two-man turret or a remotely operated weapon station. 8 personnel can be carried, depending on the role and the weapon system fitted on the vehicle. Foldable blast attenuation seats are used for crew and dismounts against mines and IED threats. Powerpack consists of a water cooled 482 hp diesel engine, coupled with a fully automatic transmission which gives a maximum road speed of up to 100 km/h. Pars is fully amphibious being propelled in the water at a speed of up to 8 km/h by two water jets mounted one either side of the hull at the rear. The driver can deploy the trim vane at the front of the hull, activate the bilge pumps and activate the water jets without leaving his position. Standard equipment fitted in the vehicle are NBC protection system, air conditioning, anti-lock braking system, central tyre inflation system, run flat inserts and a self-recovery winch. The vehicle can be fitted with various weapons systems depending on the user requirements.
Arma
Arma vehicle’s development started in 2007.Otokar developed amphibious tactical wheeled armoured to target the Turkish Land Forces’ Special Purpose Tactical Wheeled Armoured Vehicle project. At Eurosatory June 2010 , Otokar present the first time to the public, his new wheeled armoured vehicle, the Arma 6x6. Arma 8x8 version development and production phase was completed in last quarter of 2010 and has unveiled IDEF 2011. Otokar received the first contract for its new 6x6 tactical armoured vehicle Arma from abroad. The contract is valued in excess of $10.6 million including the vehicles, spare parts and training. In June 2011, Otokar has been awarded a $63.2 million second contract for its new 6x6 tactical armoured vehicle Arma.
Arma vehicle platform with superior tactical and technical features will be an outstanding and cost effective product among competitive products. Thanks to the high level of ballistic and mine protection as well as, the outstanding design allowing the integration of various types of weapon stations and mission equipment, Arma will be an adaptable platform for evolving mission needs in a modern battlefield. The engine is located at the right front of the vehicle, allowing a comparably high internal volume to be efficiently and ergonomically used. With this internal layout, all the personnel especially the commander can keep eye contact continuously among each other.
Arma 6x6 has an 18.500 kg combat weight ,carries a driver, commander and eight dismounts in its fully NBC protected hull. The vehicle payload capacity is 4500 kg. Arma is C-130 air transportable in standard configuration. The vehicle can be driven in 6x6 or 6x4 modes depending upon the terrain conditions. Arma uses a 6 x 6 chassis and is motorised with a 450hp water-cooled turbo diesel capable of running on F-34 or F-54 fuel drives the wheels through an automatic gearbox and single-speed transfer box, giving it a top speed of 105 km/h and a power/weight ratio of 24.3hp/tonne. This also powers the on-board 24 V DC electrical system, which incorporates two maintenance-free 125 Ah batteries and a 3.3 kW converter. Arma’s front two axles are steerable enabling it to make a turning radius of 7.85 m and the vehicle rides on independent hydro pneumatic suspension, offering respectable off-road mobility and comfort. It can negotiate a 45-degree approach and departure angles leading onto 60 per cent inclines and 30 per cent side-slopes. It can also cross 1.2 m-wide trenches and climb over 60 cm obstacles. Arma 8x8 transports 10 dismounts, the driver and the commander and a maximum load weight fo 24 tons. The Arma 8x8 vehicle electronic system was developed by Otokar. With this system, the vehicle’s driver with the use of a thermal camera can see the road and the surroundings and continue forward the dark, in the fog and in smoke without opening a light. The same camera can see the back of the vehicle when the driver is driving the vehicle in reverse. Arma is amphibious and driven by 2 hydraulically driven propellers in water allowing a high seagoing performance with a pivot turn capability. The Arma 8x8 can move in water at 8 km per hour without any preliminary preparation. Arma’s ballistic and anti-mine protection is provided by high hardness monocoque stell hull and all personnel is seated on anti-mine seats. Arma can be used for various purposes including command control vehicle, reconnaissance vehicle, NBC reconnaissance, ambulance, mine disposal vehicle.
Ejder 6X6
The Tactical Wheeled Armoured Vehicles was developed by Nurol Makina.Ejder 6X6 Armored Combat Vehicle meets the user requirements with its fast adaptation to the battlefield. 6X6 Armored Combat Vehicle can be customized for various applications such as “Reconnaissance”, “Command and Control”, “Fire Support”, “ Personnel Transport”, “Medical Evacuation”, “Ammunition Transport” and “Air Defense” missions. By its design, Ejder 6X6 supports integration of various weapon systems with different types and sizes.
High level ballistic protection
Add-on armour protection solutions for higher ballistic protections
High level mine protection with “V” shape, Monocoque body and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) protection
Independent suspension system for all wheels
Excellent off-road performance and Superior maneuverability capabilities
Powerful engine, High power-to-weight ratio
Run-flat tires
Ergonomic and wide interior design
Air transportable
Fully amphibious, (unprepared)
High Survivability, Excellent Sustainability and High Availability
Armament and Equipment Options
Simple Operation and Easy Maintainability
Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS)
Ejder 4X4
Ejder 4x4 was developed 4X4, satisfies the operational requirements of military units and security forces in rural and urban areas by Nurol Makina Ejder 4X4 is a dynamic, agile, modular, versatile, easy care and low maintenance combat vehicle having high ballistic armour and protection against mine blast under all environmental conditions and off-road. By its high payload capability, various types of weapon systems and payloads can be integrated to Ejder 4X4. It has the largest interior volume among its class. Ejder 4x4 was unveiled at the first time IDEF 2013. By its great features, Ejder 4X4 is an ideal platform for various applications such as “Reconnaissance”, “Command and Control”, “Interior Security” and “Ambulance”.
High level ballistic protection (Also can be increased by add-on armour plate options)
High level mine protection with “V” shaped body and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) protection
High level protection against rocket attacks by «Bird Cage» option
High payload capacity
Largest interior volume in its class.
High personnel carrying capacity.
High maneuverability.
Independent suspension system for all wheels
Integration of various weapon systems (Remote or Manually Operated Weapon Stations)
Latitudinal and longitudinal differential locking systems.
Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS)
Smoke Grenade Launcher/ Grenade Launcher
Explosion Suppression and Fire Fighting System
Varan (SPTWAV)
Design criteria of HEMA’s SPTWAV is easy to use, operation capability of the hard environment and personnel safety. Varan’s excellent field reparability means that it can usually return to service within a matter of hours. It can transport 5-13 persons plus equipment, and be configured for Command and Control, Reconnaissance, Radar, Support, NBC, EOD, Patrol, Forward Observation, Med-Evac missions plus more. And with 60% gradient and 40% side slope capabilities, the VARAN can operate in challenging rural, mountainous and urban terrains.
Kirpi MRAP
With the contract signed on 27 March 2009 between the Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) and Bmc in order to meet the requirements of Turkish Land Forces for vehicles to carry/transfer weapon, material and personnel safely and quickly. Within the scope of project, 468 vehicles are going to be procured.
At the International defence exhibition of Paris, Eurosatory 2010, Bmc has unveiled 4x4 MRAP Kirpi. The First MRAP’s were delivered to Turkish Land Forces in March 2011. MRAP’s delivery is going on to Turkish Land Forces inventory.
Kirpi, the mine resistant ambush protected vehicle, which is actively used by Turkish Armed Forces at hot spots of terrorism attacks, has 350 PS engine, fully automatic transmission and 4x4 or 4x2 wheel drive capability according to the road conditions. Kirpi can be run at a maximum speed of 105 km/h with a maximum range of 800 km with 13 soldiers. It can power-up steep gradients and even cling to 60% steep slopes. The vehicle has 120 cm water fording capability without any preparation. Running between -32 and + 55 C temperature, the bottom part of Kirpi is protected against grenades and land mines and rapidly repairable when exposed to mines. Passing severe mine and ballistic tests according to the NATO standards, Kirpi has a run-flat system which enables 40-meter moving away in case of blowout and a central tire inflation system (CTIS) activated by a single button that allows cross country mobility. Kirpi uses a V-shape chassis to increase vehicle and crew survivability by deflecting an upward directed blast from a landmine away from the vehicle, while also presenting a sloped armour face Kirpi features the latest technologies of shock absorber seats and interior accessories, as GPS system, rear view camera and automatic fire suppression system. The soldiers can enter and leave the vehicle through a large hydraulically operated ramp at the rear of the hull. Kirpi has five firing ports and four bulletproof windows in either side of the troop compartment. Kirpi can be used for various purposes including command control vehicle, reconnaissance vehicle, antitank weapon system, machine gun weapon system, grenade launcher system, ambulance, mine disposal vehicle, recovery vehicle and maintenance vehicle.
Kale MRAP
Kale, which was developed by Otokar in order to meet the vehicle requirements of Turkish Land to carry/transfer weapon, material and personnel safely and quickly with the contract signed in 2009 for Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Project, was presented for the first time at IDEF in 2009. Having 16.500 kg weight and 456 mm ground clearance, Kale uses 6-cylinder 300hp water –cooled turbo diesel engine. Having high performance even at terrain conditions, Kale is able to carry 13 crews including driver. Kale can run at maximum road speed of 100 km/h with a max range of 800 km and it has in standard a run-flat system to enable the movement of vehicle even if the blowout as well as air-conditioning system and interior dome light with dim-out feature. Optionally, self-protection crane, protection rig against NBC attacks, radio internal communication system, positioning system, automatic fire fighting system, front and rear cameras as well as hydraulic driven ramp door can be equipped in the vehicle. It has 360-degree manually traversing turret system on the vehicle which can be mounted 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun or 40 mm automatic grenade launcher.
Kaya MPV
Kaya is designed and developed by Otokar as a mine-protected vehicle. It’s based on the proven Unimog 5000 chassis for high level cross country mobility. Kaya 4x4 mine protected vehicle with its flexible body configuration can easily be configured for different missions along with varying user needs. Kaya has two variants, one being the armoured personnel carrier (APC) with armoured driver’s cabin in the front and armoured troop compartment in the back that can carry 12 fully equipped troops, and it provides the ability to respond possible threats with its weapon turret. Due to its flexible design, the APC variant can be adapted into an ambulance or a command post vehicle. The second variant is a cargo carrier with protected driver’s cabin but without the troop compartment in the back, instead having an unprotected flatbed cargo area. The troop’s compartment is at the rear with the lower part in V-shape for a higher level of protection against anti-tank mines. The Kaya MPV can run at maximum road speed of 96 km/h with a max range of 800 km. Besides its new model Kaya 2 weighs 2000 kg more than the previous model and has an increased ballistic protection. The engine of this version is also more strengthened than the previous version. Instead of 4-cylinder 4.8 litre 218 hp supercharged diesel engine used in previous model, it has now 7.2 litre 300 hp water-cooled supercharged Euro III diesel engine. The crew capacity of the previous version was 12 whereas it is now 10 including driver and commander.
Ural
Yet another wheeled tactical armoured vehicle from Otokar Ural is the latest result of company’s experience in police and domestic security vehicles. With its high mobility capacity and protection level, Ural is ideal for domestic security and paramilitary missions and it has been developed especially for meeting the domestic users’ demand for an armoured vehicle that has more payload and offers more driving and personnel comfort. Ural shall fill the gap between Otokar’s present Armoured Personnel Carrier and Cobra and it shall have a modular structure as well.
Cobra
Significant technological, engineering and marketing investments have been made for Cobra Project, which was initiated by Otokar with the support of Tübitak 1997.During its design phase several tests like performance in Acclimatized Wind Tunnel, Brake Performance Tests with 5th Wheel, Environmental Tests, Gradability Tests, Fording Capability Tests, Side Slope Capability Tests, Mobility Performance Tests and Mine Resistance Tests were realized successfully at different locations within and outside the country and under different weather and geographical conditions.
The Cobra has an all-welded steel hull for improved protection against different versions of small arms fire as well as mines. If required, the Cobra can be delivered with a higher level of armour protection utilizing add-on armour.
The power pack is at the front, with the driver being seated at the front left and the vehicle commander to his right. To the front and side of the commander and driver are bulletproof windows with those to the front being provided with a washer and wiper. On either side of the hull is a forward opening door with a bullet proof observation window in the upper part. If required, these single piece doors can be configured as two part hatches.
The troop compartment is at the rear with three men seated behind the commander and driver and facing the front. The centrally seated member of whom normally mans the weapon station. Three men are seated down each side of the Cobra facing each other on individual seats which fold up when not required. A large door is provided in the rear of the hull which opens to the left.
In the APC version, either side of the troop compartment there are two bulletproof vision blocks with a firing port below. The weapon station is normally mounted on the roof to the rear of the commander and driver with a single piece hatch to the rear.
The water-cooled turbo charged diesel engine develops 190 hp and is coupled to a four speed automatic transmission with permanent 4x4 drive and a two-speed transfer case. The exhaust pipe runs from the engine compartment up to the left side of the roof. The Cobra vehicles has a maximum 115km/h, acceleration of 0 to 60km/h in 13 seconds and a range of 720 km.
Single speed Torsen differentials are standard with the suspension at each wheel station being of the double A-frame type with coil springs which provides good cross-country mobility. Hypoid single reduction differentials are mounted under the hull and are coupled with independent half shafts.
Power steering is fitted as standard, as is an air conditioning system, blackout system, start socket, main cut off switch, gun clips, combat type seat belts, front and rear recovery hooks, thermal insulation inside the hull, pioneer tool kit and run-flat tyres. Optional equipment includes a central tyre inflation system (CTIS), electric winch, NBC system, smoke grenade launchers, driver periscopes and various types of communication equipment. Various types of weapon station and turret can be adapted to the Cobra Vehicles; Open Cupola Weapon Station(7.62mm MG/12.7mm HMG/ 40 mm AGL), MKT Closed Turret (7.62mm MG/12.7mm HMG), Remote Controlled Weapon Station –Keskin (7.62mm MG/12.7mm HMG/ 40 mm AGL), 20mm Cannon Open Cupola Weapon Station ,7.62mm/12.7mm Retractable Gun Mount, Tow/Milan/Kornet-E Antitank Missile Launcher. Cobra can be used for various purposes Personnel Carrier, Command Control Vehicle, Command Post Vehicle, Reconnaissance / Surveillance Vehicle, CBRN Reconnaissance Vehicle, Jammer Vehicle, Patrol Vehicle, Recovery Vehicle, Ambulance, EOD Bratt, Amphibious Variants. An optional amphibious kit consists of double hydraulic thrusters with joystick control and closing louvers. The system allows the vehicle to enter water without preparation.
Cobra vehicles are in service with different variants in the Turkish Land Forces Command and Gendarmerie at present. Also it was entered into service more than 10 country inventory and UN operations with different variants.
Cobra II
Selling over 2000 Cobras in 15 countries including Turkey, Otokar is preparing to confirm her success with the new family member Cobra-II. Designed in line with the emerging needs and existing demands of the users in 5 continents, Cobra-II will have the equivalent mobility capacities and 9 crew carrying capacity. Cobra-II has more payload and volume than the existing Cobra vehicle and it shall offer a better protection against handmade explosives, mines and ballistic explosives than the standard Cobra. According to the plan, the manufacturing of the standard Cobra shall continue with the start of the production of Cobra-II. Cobra II has unveiled at the first time in IDEF 13’
Şimşek Armoured Weapon Carrier Vehicle (WCV)
This Şimşek 4x4 WCV is designed using cutting edge technologies to be the first line of Defence – and its outstanding occupant survival rate says it all.
Built to withstand ballistic arms fire, mine blasts, IEDs, and other emerging threats, the Şimşek’s V-shaped hull helps to deflect blasts out and away from the crew and equipment. With its superior mobility, the Şimşek gets crew moving across threatening terrain in the most risky conditions, making it the single most effective counter to IEDs.
Additionally, Şimşek can transport 8+2=10 passengers plus equipment, and be configured for Command and Control, Reconnaissance, Support, EOD, Patrol, Forward Observation and plus more. And with 60% gradient and 40% side slope capabilities, Şimşek that is an outstanding WCV can also operate in challenging rural, mountainous and urban terrains.
Tayfun Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC)
When faced with the risk of IEDs, Tayfun offers unparalleled protection. This 4x4 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle is designed using cutting edge technologies to be the first line of defence – and its outstanding occupant survival rate says it all.
Built to withstand ballistic arms fire, mine blasts, IEDs, and other emerging threats, the Tayfun’s V-shaped hull helps to deflect blasts out and away from the crew. With its superior mobility, the Tayfun gets troops moving across threatening terrain in the most risky conditions, making it the single most effective counter to IEDs.
But there’s more. The Tayfun’s excellent field reparability means that it can usually return to service within a matter of hours. It can transport nine passengers plus equipment, and be configured for Command and Control, EOD, Patrol, Convoy Support, Forward Observation, Reconnaissance, Med-Evac missions plus more. And with 60% gradient and 30% side slope capabilities, as well as a ground clearance of 600 mm, the Tayfun can operate in challenging rural, mountainous and urban terrains.
In short; the Tayfun is an outstanding MRAP, one that is at the forefront in security and safety for anyone on the move in unfriendly territories.
Specialized Vehicles
Armoured Amphibious Assault Bridge (AAAB)
In 2007, FNSS has awarded a contract with TLFC for the design, development and production of Armoured Amphibious Assault Bridge. Within the scope of project, 52 AAAB vehicles are going to be procured. The first prototypes that being manufactured in 2009, were completed the following year first prototype began to be operated on land. 4 training sets of Amphibious Assault Bridge, delivered to Land Forces Command in September 2011, were subjected to challenging durability tests for land and sea tasks during 10 months and succeeded such tests. Being under mass production phase, 52 AAAB vehicles delivered to the Land Forces Command in mid of 2013.
The AAAB System is a bridge and ferry system designed for Turkish Armed Forces’ fast and safe transport through the rivers in the battlefield.
With its diesel engine, automatic transmission, pneumatic suspension and hydraulic brake system, the AAAB system can climb up to 50% gradient and move on 30% side slope. The system, different from the similar systems in the market, has an 8x8 drive system with a central tire inflation system.
The AAAB system has two water pump jets that provide the water operations and 360° movements in the water. The system can operate in water currents up to 2.5m/s.
As a ferry, the AAAB system can transport MLC 21 tracked vehicles. By deploying the ramps, which are carried by a hydraulic crane, and joining two systems, MLC70 T vehicle can be transported. By coupling three systems from ramp to ramp MLC100 W vehicle can be transported through a river. As well as the role as a ferry, 12 AAAB systems can be coupled and constructed as a 150m long bridge for crossing of vehicles up to MLC100 W.
For the safety issues, AAAB system has a self-recovery winch, an automatic fire suppression system, a fixed fire extinguishing system, portable fire extinguishers, and positive pressure NBC system.
As nationally designed and developed amphibious bridge system in Turkey, the AAAB system has some additional specifications among its kind. It can carry 4 ramps on a single system. AAAB system has also standard anchoring system (both emergency and land anchoring systems), ballistic protection, and easy fault detection with CAN system.
Armoured Amphibious Combat Earthmover (AACE)
During the river passage operations to be performed by the Armed Forces, the riverbanks are not always available for the entry and exit of amphibious vehicles to/from the rivers or the available riverbanks can be disadvantageous for the military operations. Being flexible in the selection of amphibious operation area is critical for the increase of Armed Forces’ mobility and operation capability.
In order for the amphibious vehicles having launched down to the water, the riverbanks (their slope, width, soil hardness, surface flatness and etc.) should be made available for the capabilities of different vehicles. There are standard military work machines used for this purpose but since they fail to float, their most disadvantageous aspect is not being able to make the opposite shore available similarly. For this reason, the transportation of these vehicles to the opposite side of the river is a must. The transportation requirement reduces the flexibility and success of the operation and at the same time affects the duration of mobility. Another restriction for the utilization of such standard work machines is that the need for another transporting vehicle in order for them to be transported to the mobility area. In order to eliminate such vulnerability, an amphibious vehicle was needed to ensure the availability of both shores for the river passage operations of Turkish Armed Forces and AACE project was developed for this reason. FNSS was the successful bidder in the tender opened as a local development model. Initiated on June 15th, 2009, the project covers the delivery of 12 AACE vehicles, its technical documentation and user manuals, spare parts and ancillary equipment/hardware within 42 months, which is deemed very short for the development of a military vehicle. Realized with fully local design and development, and with widely local production, FNSS’ structural design, product technologies, resource technologies and hydraulic electronic system design capabilities were used in the design studies of AACE project. The modelling and simulation infrastructures of the universities were used and cooperation with universities and research centres was made.
AACE basically is an amphibious, armoured and a tracked fortification work machine that can be used 1 operator and 1 crew. As a work machine, it is able to make shovelling, flattening, transporting and plowing activities.
As compared to standard work machines, AACE has the capability to take in ballast from the soil ground to its ballast canister when necessary and discharge it at the end of the operation. In standard work machines, the dozer blade is swinging while the vehicle is stable however in AACE it is fixed to the vehicle. With its superior hydraulic suspension system, the front side of AACE can be lifted down or up and by this way its blade or ballast canister can touch and access the ground. As a result, more efficient shovelling and plowing can be made. These activities can also be made while the vehicle is mobile.
AACE distinguishes from M9 ACE of BAE Systems, with its new technology and advanced technical features.
One of the most important features AACE has is that it is amphibious and has the capacity for 2 crews. Besides, AACE has modern electronic systems like day and night cameras, multi-function LCD monitor and air-condition. The hull of AACE was designed with aluminium material by taking into account its floating requirements. Its hydraulic, power and power transmission systems were equipped with modern equipment and tools and by this way the vehicle has higher manoeuvre capability and performance.
At AACE’s power assembly, Allison full automatic transmission is coupled with Cat diesel engine. AACE can move 45 km/h speed at land and can reach the operation area together with other military vehicles without need for transportation. It can travel in the flowing water with 360° high-manoeuvred capability through its 2 water jets.
AACE project is planned in three phases as design, prototype development and mass production. In design and prototype development phases, 14 wide range system and subsystem qualification tests were made with the detailed design of the product and one prototype vehicle developed.
The qualification tests were initiated with Mine Test which was performed in Konya Karapınar in 2011 and then with Ballistic Tests which were performed in internationally accredited laboratories. Through these tests, the endurance of AACE against land mines and armour-piercing ammunitions is proven. Later, the operational performance test took place and its shovelling, flattening, ballast carrying and plowing capabilities as a work machine were approved by SSM and Turkish Land Forces committee.
The EMI/EMC compatibility tests were applied under the supervision of TUBITAK for the first time to a land vehicle at an open terrain and AACE satisfied all EMI/EMC conditions that a land vehicle would meet. In June 2012, Water Performance tests were made for testing AACE’s amphibious feature. AACE accomplished the operation in the water with 1,5/sec flow speed and its manoeuvre capability was approved.
Other qualification tests that AACE was subjected to are the Land Performance Test, Fuel Consumption Test, Cold Running Test and Cooling System Test. In the mass production phase, the production, acceptance and control tests of 12 AACE vehicles are completed at the end of 2012 and service into Turkish Land Forces.
