IDEF 2023: Otokar unveils the new Alpar Unmanned Ground Vehicle.

The Alpar Unmanned Ground Vehicle's main purpose is to seamlessly integrate with both manned and unmanned elements on the battlefield, effectively addressing the growing demand for robotic and unmanned ground vehicles. The Alpar family offers versatility with various models designed for specific purposes, including the armored fighting vehicle, anti-tank vehicle, logistic re-supply vehicle, C-UAS vehicle, relay vehicle, and reconnaissance and surveillance vehicle.
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IDEF 2023: OTOKAR unveils the new ALPAR Unmanned Ground Vehicle (Picture source Army Recognition)

Developed by the Turkish company Otokar, Alpar is a series of vehicles equipped with a hybrid-electric drive infrastructure, capable of performing multiple tasks to enhance military operations in various scenarios. One of its key roles is to collaborate with manned vehicles and infantry, taking on lead or wing positions as needed to provide effective support in military operations. The Alpar is equipped with onboard Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), enabling it to conduct surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

Furthermore, Alpar possesses offensive capabilities, allowing it to engage enemy positions with its firepower. Equipped with a main gun and guided missiles, it can neutralize enemy shelters, buildings, and vehicles. Additionally, the vehicle offers direct fire and fire support capabilities, proving to be valuable in diverse combat situations.

Thanks to its autonomous features, Alpar can execute independent missions such as patrolling, border surveillance, and acting as a carrier for mini-UGVs or drones using the marsupial concept. Moreover, it plays a role in target detection and logistic support, helping identify potential threats and transport essential resources during military operations. Alpar's versatility extends to serving as a carrier for loitering munitions, an autonomous re-supply vehicle, a Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS), and an Electronic Warfare (EW) platform.

The Alpar UGV incorporates several advanced functions to enhance its battlefield capabilities. It includes platooning and follow-me capabilities, which facilitate efficient convoy missions and promote better coordination between vehicles. Additionally, the UGV can seamlessly communicate with other unmanned assets like UAVs and USVs, fostering improved interoperability during operations. The Return Home function ensures a reliable and safe route back to base when needed.

Alpar utilizes 2D and 3D LIDAR mapping, along with obstacle detection and re-routing, to navigate its surroundings effectively. The Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system provides situational awareness to minimize the risk of friendly fire incidents. Furthermore, the UGV's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) contribute to overall operational safety and efficiency, making it a valuable addition to modern military strategies.

Key features of ALPAR include its silent operation through a serial hybrid electric drive architecture, a modular platform allowing easy customization, and the capability to carry mini-UGVs to enhance mission versatility. It also boasts low thermal and acoustic signatures for stealth operations, high off-road mobility comparable to Armored Fighting Vehicles and Light Tanks, and air transportability for rapid deployment. Additionally, ALPAR features a quick-change battery pack and a straightforward maintenance platform, reducing logistic complexities in the field.

Besides a maximum speed exceeding 70 km/h, Alpar can drive on a side slope gradability of 30%, overcome a vertical obstacle crossing of 700 mm, and a trench crossing of 1,800 mm. its operational range averages 500 km. Its Gross Vehicle Weight is 1,5000 kg, its length is 6,250 mm, its width is 2,750 mm, its platform height is 1,500 mm, and its ground clearance is 450 mm. The power pack comprises a series hybrid with a diesel range extender, while the suspension includes a torsion bar with a hydraulic damper and an automatic track tensioning system. The electric system utilizes a low-voltage 24 VDC AGM battery and a high-voltage 750 VDC Li-Ion battery.