MKEK showcases the 105mm Boran howitzer at WDS 2024.

At the World Defense Show 2024 (WDS 2024) in Saudi Arabia, Makina ve Kimya Endustrisi Kurumu (MKEK) showcases the 105mm Boran air portable light towed howitzer, highlighting Türkiye's willpower to defense innovation on a global stage.
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105mm Boran air portable light towed howitzer displayed at WDS 2024 (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Boran, a 105mm towed light howitzer, is representing a significant achievement in Turkish defense manufacturing, currently being fully designed and developed by MKEK (Makina ve Kimya Endustrisi Kurumu) to fulfill the operational requirements of the Turkish Army. MKEK, established in 1950, is broadly engaging in the production of ammunition for small arms and heavy weapons, artillery systems, aerial bombs, mines, explosives, and rockets.

The Born, introduced to the public at the IDEF defense exhibition in Istanbul, Türkiye, in 2019, exemplifies the capabilities of Turkish defense technology. Its design, bearing resemblance to the French LG1 light towed howitzer by Nexter Systems, now part of KNDS, is underscoring the Boran's modern attributes and its alignment with global standards in artillery design.

Currently, the design of the howitzer includes a bow-type carriage and is equipped with two wheels at the front, facilitating ease of transport. In its road configuration, the gun's saddle and the 105mm/30 caliber barrel are being pivoted to the rear and securely locked, enhancing mobility and rapid deployment capabilities.

The Boran's variable recoil system, adjustable between 800mm (short) to 120mm (long), complemented by a muzzle brake to mitigate recoil effects, along with its traverse capabilities of 8° to the left and right and elevation range from -3° to +70°, is providing the Boran with versatile firing solutions across varied terrains and combat scenarios.

Additionally, the howitzer is being outfitted with a sophisticated, computerized fire control system developed by Aselsan, a leading Turkish defense company. This system incorporates a ballistic computer, an inertial navigation system, and a radar mounted on the barrel for muzzle velocity measurement, ensuring high accuracy and efficiency in target engagement.

With a maximum firing range of 17 km and a rate of fire of 6 rounds per minute, the Boran howitzer, weighing 1,780 kg and requiring a five-person crew for operation, is demonstrating MKEK's emphasis on the Boran's swift reaction capability and operational flexibility. 

Defense News February 2024