Otokar CEO highlights Romania project, ARMA II and strategic expansion to Europe
COBRA II 4x4 armoured tactical vehicle designed and produced by Turkish company Otokar, at the 16th edition of International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) and the 7th edition of the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (Navdex) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, February 21 2023. (AA Photo)
One of Türkiye’s leading defense manufacturers Otokar’s CEO Ibrahim Aykut Ozuner highlighted the company’s strategic priorities for 2025 during his appearance at Anadolu Agency’s (AA) Technology Desk.
He emphasized significant developments in military vehicle exports, advancements in electric mobility and plans for European market expansion.
Contract with Romania: Largest land vehicle export deal
Ozuner stated that Otokar’s primary focus for the upcoming year is fulfilling its contract with Romania, a project valued at approximately $1 billion. Under this agreement, Otokar will produce and deliver 278 COBRA II armored vehicles within a year, with subsequent vehicles planned for local production in Romania.
“Every country today prefers technology transfers as part of large defense procurements,” said Ozuner. “This project involves an initial batch produced in Türkiye, followed by localized production in Romania with our trusted partner.”
The contract marks Otokar’s second major European project after Estonia, positioning the company as a key defense supplier in the region.
ARMA II ready for serial production with domestic engine
Discussing advancements in armored vehicle technology, Ozuner emphasized the readiness of the ARMA II platform, which comes with two engine options, including a domestically produced engine.
“Both options have completed all necessary tests and are ready for mass production,” Ozuner said. He highlighted Otokar’s ability to swiftly integrate new technologies across its product lineup, including Cobra, Tulpar and Alpar models.
Growth in electric commercial vehicles a key priority
In the commercial vehicle segment, Otokar remains focused on expanding its presence in electric mobility. Ozuner noted that nearly 4,000 electric buses were sold in Europe last year, underscoring the market’s potential.
“Our electric vehicle product range is fully prepared, and we’ve already achieved significant sales in Italy,” he stated. Ozuner also mentioned ongoing developments in electric school buses and urban transportation solutions.
Alpar advances in autonomous technology
Highlighting progress in unmanned and autonomous technologies, Ozuner shared insights into the Alpar armored vehicle’s remote operation capabilities.
“We’ve successfully tested Alpar’s fully autonomous and remote-controlled operations. This technology allows for diverse mission profiles, particularly in high-risk scenarios,” he explained.
Strategic expansion in Europe
Otokar aims to accelerate growth in key European markets, including Germany and Nordic countries.
“We are currently the fourth-largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in Europe, and we see significant opportunities to expand further,” said Ozuner. He emphasized that establishing production capabilities within the European Union would be a crucial strategic milestone for Otokar.
