Turkey is Developing its Own Tank for Export

This post is also available in: עברית (Hebrew)

Turkey is interested in the development and manufacture of weapon systems that can potentially be exported to international markets. Recently, Turkey’s Defense Industry Undersecretary (SSM) has invited five local companies to bid on a project to develop an engine for its Altay battle tank.

Defense Minister Nurettin Canikli said that Turkey has received bids to mass produce 500 Altay tanks, of which 250 were optional, and added that the tender would be finalized in the coming days.

According to defenseworld.net, the Altay tank project, led by the Turkish commercial and military vehicle producer Otokar, is worth an estimated 7 billion euros ($8.30 billion).

In addition to meeting requirements of the Turkish army, Ankara has commenced making presentations about the Altay Tank to potential international customers including Pakistan, Indonesia and Qatar.

The companies include the public engine maker Tümosan as well as BMC Otomotiv, Figes Fizik, Istanbul Denizcilik and Tusas Motor.

Turkey has been working to develop its own defense systems and equipment, and has lined up several projects for the coming years, including combat helicopters, tanks, drones and more, according to gulfnews.com.