Türkiye to minimise dependence on arms imports

The production of domestic engines and weapons systems remains among the priority issues for the development of the Turkish defence complex.

One of the recognized leaders in this field is Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) AŞ, which has been implementing a project for the development of hybrid power plants together with local partners for some time, according to the Anadolu Agency.

MKE seeks to eliminate Türkiye’s dependence on imported power plants and engines for armoured vehicles. Along with diesel engines, the company is developing electric engines.

One of the company’s successfully developments, which is nearing completion, is an electric motor for armoured vehicles weighing up to 25 tons. Some 26 different tests of this engine at the Burdur test site were successful and the first 50 of them will soon enter service with the Turkish Armed Forces. Moreover, deliveries will begin in July this year.

For armoured vehicles of greater weight, MKE is developing a whole complex of 8 components, including electric motors with a hybrid power plant, batteries and generators.

As part of this project, testing of Fırtına self-propelled guns with electric motors will begin in July.

Another area of work for MKE is the development of 76 mm naval gun mounts. Tests of installations producing 80 rounds per minute were successful in the Karapinar area. The latest tests are planned to be completed in the next two months, after which mass production will begin.

Another important MKE project implemented jointly with TÜBİTAK SAGE is increasing the firing range of domestic Fırtına self-propelled guns from the current 40 km to 56 km, and in the future to 72 km. By the end of this year, it is planned to reach the initial goal of 56 km.