Turkish armored vehicle manufacturer FNSS eyes joint production with UAE

Türkiye’s armored vehicle industry is expanding its global reach, with FNSS considering a potential joint production partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of a broader defense collaboration.

FNSS General Manager Nail Kurt announced that discussions are underway following a new cooperation agreement signed at the IDEX 2025 defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi.

FNSS and UAE explore joint armored vehicle production

During the defense industry event in Abu Dhabi, FNSS signed an agreement to modernize approximately 615 armored vehicles in the UAE.

Speaking to TRT Haber, on the sidelines of the exhibition, Kurt emphasized that many nations now require domestic contributions or localized production when procuring defense systems.

“If they purchase new products and the project scale allows, we are open to establishing production facilities. We have experience with technology transfers in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Saudi Arabia. If the numbers permit, we can engage in local and joint production,” he stated.

Türkiye’s growing armored vehicle industry

Türkiye’s armored land vehicle industry has become a key player in the global defense market, successfully competing in price and quality.

FNSS, one of Türkiye’s leading defense firms, continues to strengthen its international presence despite past restrictions and embargoes on military exports.

“The Turkish armored vehicle sector has not only proven its strength domestically but has also gained a reputation worldwide,” Kurt said. “We are capable of competing at the highest level in any market, whether in the West, East, or Russia.”

New armored vehicle projects on the horizon

While FNSS continues to expand internationally, it is also preparing for new domestic defense projects. Kurt confirmed that significant announcements are expected soon.

“The total value of our ongoing projects is substantial, and we continue to receive orders. We are collaborating with Aselsan on air defense systems, with Roketsan on the Pedestal-Mounted Cirit turret, and with the Defense Industry Secretariat on various weapons carrier vehicles,” he noted.

Additionally, a signing ceremony for next-generation armored vehicle projects is expected soon. “The Turkish military began acquiring ACVs in the early 1990s. Now, a major leap forward will take place with new-generation vehicles. There will be ongoing projects, but significant new initiatives are also about to start,” Kurt said.