Bosnia and Herzegovina, Türkiye sign Kirpi II vehicle deal for delivery in March 2025

Bosnia and Herzegovina signed a significant deal with Türkiye on Thursday for the procurement and delivery of Kirpi II armored personnel carriers, marking a major advancement in their defense cooperation, according to a statement by the Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Armed Forces.

The vehicles, developed by Türkiye’s BMC company, are set to enhance the operational capacity of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Armed Forces (AFBiH). The Kirpi armored personnel carrier is widely used across the world and has proven its effectiveness in combat. Its presence in the Ukraine-Russia war further demonstrates its capabilities.

The initiative follows the Military-Financial Cooperation Agreement signed in 2021 between the two countries.

Türkiye and Bosnia solidify defense partnership

A meeting held at the Ministry of Defense of Bosnia and Herzegovina featured key officials, including Defense Minister Zukan Helez and representatives from BMC.

In addition to Minister Helez and his associates, the meeting was attended by Maj. Gen. Mirsad Ahmic, Deputy Chief of the Joint Staff of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina for Resources Brig. Gen. Murat Kul, military attache of the Republic of Türkiye in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The BMC delegation consisted of Lutfi Balik, general manager; Mehmet Altinhan, deputy general manager; and Metin Olcay, director of international business development of BMC.

First delivery scheduled for 2025

BMC officials announced that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a priority recipient under existing agreements. The first Kirpi II armored personnel carrier is expected to be delivered in March 2025.

Minister Helez emphasized the importance of this cooperation as a confirmation of friendly relations between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Türkiye.

Minister Helez expressed particular satisfaction with the readiness of BMC representatives to collaborate with specialized industry companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina for the maintenance of the vehicles. This could make Bosnia and Herzegovina a regional center for support of BMC products according to the officials.

Helez highlighted the strategic significance of the deal, noting its alignment with the Armed Forces’ modernization goals.

Future cooperation prospects

The meeting also explored potential partnerships between BMC and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s domestic defense industry, particularly in maintenance and servicing.