Türkiye signs contracts for ‘next generation armored vehicles’ project with FNSS, BMC

Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) officially signed contracts with FNSS and BMC for the production and delivery of the next-generation armored vehicles (NGAV) project, marking a major significant step in modernizing the Turkish Land Forces’ armored fleet.

The signing ceremony, held at SSB headquarters on Feb. 24, 2025, formalized the transition from development to mass production, with an initial batch of around 50 vehicles entering service, ultimately expanding to over 2,000 units.

New generation armored vehicles for the Turkish military

Developed over the past four years, the NGAV Project focuses on enhancing mobility, protection, and firepower while integrating the latest defense technologies.

It represents one of Türkiye’s largest military modernization programs since the introduction of Armoured Combat Vehicle (ACV) ACV-15 in the 1990s.

SSB has contracted two major Turkish defense companies to produce the vehicles:

• BMC will manufacture the ALTUG 8×8: A multi-role wheeled armored vehicle featuring advanced protection systems, including ballistic, mine, and IED resistance, alongside chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense.
• FNSS will produce the PARS ALPHA 6×6 and 8×8, designed for superior mobility, protection, and firepower, with modular capabilities to accommodate different combat scenarios.

At least 2,000 vehicles are expected to be delivered under this program, marking a significant upgrade to the Turkish Armed Forces’ (TAF) operational capabilities.

Both platforms will serve various combat roles, such as:

• Armored personnel carrier (APC)
• Armored combat vehicle (ACV) with a 35mm turret
• Tank destroyer
• Armored recovery vehicle

Statements from industry leaders

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Nurol Holding Vice Chairman Oguz Carmikli highlighted FNSS’s extensive experience in armored vehicle development:

“With this new vehicle, we have combined 35 years of expertise, user experience, and Turkish engineering to create one of the best vehicles in its class. FNSS has successfully passed SSB’s rigorous four-year-long prototype competition tests, proving its excellence. We are proud to commence the production of the PARS ALPHA for our army under the YNA Project.”

Similarly, BMC Chairman Fuat Tosyali emphasized the significance of completing the project and transitioning to serial production:

“The ALTUG vehicle is the result of an extensive, long-term effort. Under the leadership of the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB) and with the vision set by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, we are proud to contribute to Türkiye’s domestic and national defense industry initiative.”

Production and delivery timeline

• FNSS will initially deliver 25 units, including ACV variants with a 35mm turret, anti-tank vehicles, and recovery vehicles.
• BMC ALTUG 8×8 deliveries will begin in 2027, with expectations of strong export demand from allied and partner nations.