Türkiye Launches Serial Production of Altay Tanks

Türkiye has entered a new phase in its defense modernization with the official start of serial production of the Altay main battle tank at BMC's new facility in the capital.

Equipped with modern technologies, Altay is powered by the BATU engine, developed by BMC Power, a subsidiary of BMC, The Caspian Post reports citing Turkish media.

BMC’s Ankara production plant uses industrial robots and next-generation production technologies to make the tank, from hull production to the final assembly line.

BMC Chairman Fuat Tosyalı told the state-run Anadolu Agency that the firm is experiencing the joy of realizing Türkiye’s century-old dream.

Tosyalı said domestic military engines have been developed at BMC Power since last year, with power outputs ranging from 400 to 1,500 horsepower (hp).

“Our factory has now begun mass production, after laying its foundations only last year. We expect it to meet the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces and allied countries in the defense industry,” he said.

He emphasized that the BATU power group, a domestic in-house engine, will need to complete certain processes before it can be used in BMC’s tanks.

“The power group needs to ‘run’ 10,000 kilometers (6,213.7 miles) and it also has to pass certain performance tests,” he said. “So far, no setbacks have been observed in our power group’s program, and all components, including air and defense systems, are being tested together with the tank,” he said.