Türkiye’s Otokar Tulpar IFV to compete in Poland’s heavy IFV tender

Poland is set to launch a tender for heavy infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), with at least three contenders from different countries expected to participate. According to Defence 24, the competition will feature Otokar Tulpar from Türkiye, Rheinmetall Lynx from Germany, and Hanwha Redback from South Korea.

Poland reportedly preparing to purchase 1,000 new heavy infantry fighting vehicles. However initial orders for the ZSSW-30 turret was 70 units, with a total of 341 turrets planned.

Strategic partnership for chassis development

A primary requirement for Poland in this tender is to secure a license for the chassis, similar to what was achieved with the Krab howitzer. Poland’s Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicle (CBWP) program, which began in 2023, aims to address current gaps in the military’s armored vehicle fleet, despite ongoing production of Borsuk IFVs within the country.

Instead of developing an entirely new chassis, which would be time-consuming, The Polish Armament Group (PGZ), plans to mount the ZSSW-30 turret on a chassis provided by a foreign partner. This approach, inspired by the successful model used for the Krab howitzer, combines a Polish turret with a foreign-licensed chassis.

Three main bidders are competing for this lucrative contract: Rheinmetall Lynx, Otokar Tulpar, and Hanwha Redback. Each of these vehicles offers a chassis that could accommodate the ZSSW-30 turret.

Rheinmetall Lynx: A modular option

The Rheinmetall Lynx is a next-generation IFV designed for modularity and maximum protection. It can carry up to nine soldiers in addition to its three-person crew. Its standard armament includes a 30mm or 35mm automatic cannon with options for anti-tank missiles.

However, the Lynx is powered by a Liebherr engine, which is unfamiliar to the Polish Army, potentially posing a disadvantage. Despite its excellent protection against mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), recent reports of ammunition delivery failures could impact its chances in this competition.

Otokar Tulpar: A mobile and versatile contender

The Otokar Tulpar, a Turkish IFV, is noted for its high mobility and versatility. It is equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon and can be fitted with missile systems. The Tulpar’s exceptional power-to-weight ratio provides superior mobility across various terrains. However, while its defense capabilities are robust, its armor may be less effective against heavier threats compared to its competitors.

The Otokar Tulpar can also be fitted with Türkiye’s domestically built active protection systems.

Note that Poland was the first NATO country to sign an agreement to buy 24 units of Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones from Türkiye in 2021. Recently a Polish defense delegation explored Marlin USV in Türkiye as well.

Hanwha Redback

The Hanwha Redback, a South Korean IFV, is known for its robustness and advanced technology. It features a 30mm cannon and includes active defense systems, modular armor, and strong resistance to IEDs.

Poland and South Korea have several ongoing defense agreements. There are also many ongoing defense agreements between Türkiye and Poland.