Turkish Military Begins to Receive ARMA 8x8 Armored Vehicles: Equipped with Modern Mine Detection Systems

JAKARTA - The Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) have begun receiving the newest wheeled tactical armored vehicle, the ARMA 8x8 made by domestic defense giant Otokar.

ARMA armored vehicles are produced in different 4x4, 6x6, 8x8x and tracked configurations, to meet battlefield requirements with a high level of protection and mobility.

The ARMA Otokar range of wheeled vehicles is actively used by nine different users spread across five countries, including Turkey.

The 8x8 version of the ARMA family, part of the YENER Modern Mine Detection System project led by another defense giant Aselsan, was recently put into military service, reported Daily Sabah from Anadolu, December 20.

This vehicle, handed over to the Army Command, guarantees personnel safety at the highest level by detecting, diagnosing, marking explosives and hand-made mines with special equipment.

Aselsan YENER, integrated into the armored vehicle, directs radar and metal detectors controlled by mechanisms in front and on the sides, preventing action against mines and explosives on the route.

YENER, with its advanced radar algorithms, can detect various types and sizes of threats even on different types of ground, thereby making a significant contribution to the Turkish Armed Forces.

For this project, Otokar has produced a vehicle that maintains the superior features of the ARMA 8x8 while smoothly meeting additional challenging requirements.

It is known, citing Army Recognition, that the ARMA 8x8, which combines firepower with high levels of ballistic and mine protection, is a modular vehicle, capable of being equipped with various weapons stations, including a 12.7 mm circular machine gun, a rotary station for a 7.62 mm machine gun, or 40 mm grenade launcher, as well as anti-tank missile launcher. It can also be equipped with a 20/30 mm or heavier 90/105/120 mm caliber weapon system.

The ARMA 8x8 equipment includes a ramp door, rearview camera, thermal front camera, air conditioning/heating system, blackout lighting system, and radio equipment. It is also equipped with a self-recovery winch, NBC protection kit, run-flat device, intercom, GPS/INS navigation system and auxiliary power unit.

Measuring 7.82 m long, 2.7 m wide and 2.22 m high, the ARMA 8x8 can accommodate a crew of 2 (driver and commander) and transport up to 10 additional personnel. Its combination of offensive and defensive capabilities, as well as its adaptability and comfort, make the ARMA 8x8 ideal for a variety of military missions and peacekeeping operations.