At the beginning of the century, Turkey relied heavily on Western imports to equip its armed forces, with local companies covering only 20% of the country's defense needs. This dependency often became a tool for political pressure. However, through a well-planned strategy, clear prioritization, and strong political will, Turkey has reversed the situation. Today, the country meets 80% of its defense requirements domestically and has become one of the leading players in the global arms market. This transformation goes far beyond the well-known Bayraktar drones.
At the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, Turkish defense manufacturers showcased their latest advancements, attracting significant attention. Otokar, a key player in Turkey’s defense industry, presented an array of combat vehicles, including the Tulpar tank, the Arma 8x8, and the Cobra II 4x4.
Tulpar: A New Generation Combat Vehicle
Tulpar stands out as a hybrid combat vehicle, combining the maneuverability of an infantry fighting vehicle with the firepower of a tank. First unveiled at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, it measures 7.23 meters in length and weighs 42 tons. The vehicle operates with a crew of three—a commander, a driver-mechanic, and a weapons operator—and can accommodate up to two additional soldiers, depending on mission requirements.
A modular platform, Tulpar has undergone various modifications. Earlier versions served as infantry fighting vehicles equipped with a 30 mm automatic cannon, while the tank variant now features a 105 mm cannon with an automatic loading system. Additionally, it includes a 12.7 mm machine gun for engaging infantry and lightly armored vehicles. For heavily armored targets, the Tulpar is equipped with Falarick anti-tank guided missiles, a laser-guided system capable of striking enemies up to 5 km away.
The vehicle meets NATO's STANAG 4569 Level 5 protection standards, ensuring high survivability for its crew. It features a steel structure, modular armor panels, and reactive protection blocks. With an 810-horsepower engine, Tulpar reaches speeds of up to 70 km/h and can travel 600 kilometers on a single fuel tank.
Arma 8x8: Turkey’s Answer to Modern Battlefield Challenges
In recent years, 8x8 armored vehicles have gained popularity due to their superior mobility and protection. Otokar’s Arma 8x8, introduced in 2009, is a response to this demand. Designed for intensive combat and peacekeeping missions, the Arma 8x8 serves multiple roles, including command center, infantry transport, reconnaissance, medical support, and technical assistance.
The vehicle can be fitted with various weapon systems, from machine guns of different calibers to 25-30 mm automatic cannons and even a tank cannon. Covered in modular armor with advanced mine protection, it accommodates two crew members (driver and commander) and can transport 10 paratroopers using a rear door for entry and exit.
Powered by a 450-horsepower diesel engine, the Arma 8x8 reaches speeds of up to 105 km/h and covers 700 kilometers on a single refueling. It is also amphibious, allowing it to traverse water bodies.
The vehicle, weighing 24 tons, is currently in service with multiple countries, including Bahrain, Estonia, and an undisclosed African nation. The United Arab Emirates signed a $661mn contract in 2017 to acquire 400 units, which were later modified to include Russian BMP-3 turrets under the name Rabdan 8x8.
One of the Arma 8x8’s strongest selling points is its cost-effectiveness. Although unconfirmed, reports suggest that each unit is priced at $1.6mn, making it an affordable alternative to competitors. Otokar has expanded the Arma family to include the Arma 6x6 and the more advanced Arma II 8x8.
Cobra II 4x4: A Combat-Proven Tactical Vehicle
Turkey’s Cobra II 4x4, an upgraded version of the original Cobra I, has gained a reputation on the battlefield, particularly in Ukraine, where it has been deployed in high-intensity combat zones. Designed for infantry transport, convoy escort, and fire support, the vehicle also serves as a missile launch platform, command center, and mobile medical aid station.
With seating for two crew members and up to eight soldiers, the Cobra II is armored against 7.62 mm small arms fire and explosive fragments. Its design provides enhanced mine and IED protection, making it suitable for modern asymmetric warfare. Equipped with a 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine gun, the vehicle ensures combat efficiency in both urban and open battlefield environments.
Powered by a 360-horsepower turbo diesel engine, the Cobra II achieves speeds of up to 110 km/h. The vehicle’s battlefield awareness systems, including cameras and sensors, improve operational effectiveness. It is currently used by the militaries of 13 countries, with Ukraine deploying it in its most elite combat brigades, such as the Kraken unit. Estimates suggest the Cobra II is priced between $600,000 and $800,000 per unit.
BMC Kirpi: The "Hedgehog" of the Battlefield
BMC’s Kirpi (Hedgehog) armored personnel carrier is part of the MRAP (Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected) vehicle category. Designed for infantry transport, fire support, and evacuation, it is available in both 4x4 and 6x6 variants. Weighing 14 tons, the vehicle meets the STANAG 4569 Level 3 protection standard and can carry 10 soldiers alongside a commander, driver, and gun operator.
The first export customer of the Kirpi was Tunisia, followed by Qatar, the UAE, Turkmenistan, and Ukraine. Kyiv received its first batch of 50 units in August 2022, with subsequent orders exceeding 700 vehicles. Ukrainian forces have praised the Kirpi for its resistance to FPV drones and shell fragments, while maintaining a top speed of 105 km/h.
Altug 8x8: Turkey’s Heavy Armored Combat Vehicle
BMC’s Altug 8x8, first introduced in 2021, serves as a multi-role heavy combat vehicle. Capable of carrying various weapon systems, ranging from 7.62 mm machine guns to 120 mm tank cannons, its standard version is armed with a 35 mm Aselsan combat module. It accommodates a crew of three and nine additional paratroopers.
Powered by a 711-horsepower Caterpillar C13 engine, the Altug 8x8 can reach 110 km/h. The vehicle’s design focuses on modular adaptability, making it suitable for a range of military applications.
Turkey’s Rising Influence in Global Arms Trade
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Turkey’s share of global arms exports has more than doubled in the past five years. The country’s market share grew from 0.8% (2015-2019) to 1.7% (2020-2024), making it the 11th largest arms exporter worldwide. In certain segments, such as drones, Turkey has even outperformed the U.S. and China.
Meanwhile, Turkey has reduced its dependence on foreign arms imports, decreasing by 33% over the past four years. Currently, Ankara is developing the KAAN fighter jet, Altay main battle tank, T129 Atak attack helicopter, and ANKA-3 stealth bomber drone. These advancements reinforce Turkey’s military power and confidence on the global stage.
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