ARMA 8x8 tactical armored vehicle enters service in Turkish army.

The Turkish Army has enhanced its arsenal with the addition of the ARMA 8x8 tactical armored vehicle, produced by Otokar. Anadolu Agency reported this development on December 9, 2023.
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ARMA 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) designed and manufactured in Turkey (Picture source: Otokar)

The ARMA 8x8, part of Otokar's ARMA wheeled vehicle family, is already used by five countries across nine different users. This particular model is a key element of the YENER Modern Mine Detection System project, led by Aselsan, another defense company in Turkey. Equipped with advanced technology, the ARMA 8x8, delivered to the Land Forces Command, excels in detecting, identifying, and marking mines and improvised explosives, ensuring maximum personnel safety.

The ARMA 8x8 is an infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) designed and manufactured in Turkey, combining impressive firepower with high-level ballistic and mine protection. This modular vehicle stands out with its ability to be equipped with various weapon stations, including a 12.7 mm circular machine gun, a swivel station for a 7.62 mm machine gun, or a 40 mm grenade launcher, as well as anti-tank missile launchers. It can also be outfitted with 20/30 mm or heavier 90/105/120 mm weapon systems.

The ARMA 8x8 is used by several countries, notably the United Arab Emirates, which acquired 400 units of the Rabdan 8x8 IFV version in 2017. This specific version is produced by Al Jasoor Heavy Vehicles Industries, a joint venture established by Turkey's Otokar and the UAE's Tawazun. Other users include Kazakhstan and Turkey.

In terms of mobility, the ARMA 8x8 can reach a maximum road speed of 105 km/h and a water speed of 8 km/h. Its operational range is 700 km, which is considerable for a vehicle of this type. Weighing around 24,000 kg, it offers a balance between protection and mobility.

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

Measuring 7.82 m in length, 2.7 m in width, and 2.22 m in height, the ARMA 8x8 can accommodate a crew of 2 (driver and commander) and transport up to 10 additional personnel. This combination of offensive and defensive capabilities, along with its adaptability and comfort, makes the ARMA 8x8 ideal for a variety of military missions and peacekeeping operations.

Thus, the 8x8 version of the ARMA family has entered service for the first time in Turkey as part of the YENER Modern Mine Detection System project led by ASELSAN.