Otokar Exhibits Akrep II Fitted with Cockerill 90mm Turret for Increased Firepower.

At the SAHA 2024 Defense Exhibition, Turkish company Otokar introduced its armored reconnaissance vehicle, the Akrep II, equipped with an advanced turret from John Cockerill, further enhancing its combat and reconnaissance capabilities. This versatile vehicle stands out for its cutting-edge armament systems and superior mobility, making it essential for various military missions.
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Otokar Akrep II 4X4 Light Armored Vehicle  (Picture source: Army Recognition)

One of the key features of the Akrep II is its exceptional maneuverability, enabled by its all-wheel-drive system and an optional rear-steering axle. These features allow the vehicle to easily navigate difficult terrains, including deep mud, snow, or water, and overcome natural obstacles on the battlefield. This ability to adapt to demanding environments makes the Akrep II an ideal choice for armed forces seeking a reconnaissance vehicle capable of operating in extreme conditions.

Equipped with a John Cockerill turret, the Akrep II is positioned as a formidable combat platform. The turret is known for its flexibility and performance, designed to integrate a variety of weapon systems. This configuration can accommodate a medium-caliber automatic cannon, up to 90 mm, offering significant firepower while maintaining high precision. The John Cockerill turret is also equipped with a stabilization system, allowing for accurate firing, even while on the move, and direct and indirect firing capabilities, enabling the vehicle to engage targets at short and long ranges.

The Akrep II, presented by Otokar at SAHA 2024, is equipped with the Cockerill LCTS 90MP turret, a lightweight two-person system armed with a 90mm Cockerill gun. This turret is designed to deliver substantial firepower while being suitable for light armored vehicles. With its advanced autoloader and fully stabilized weapon control system, the turret allows for precise direct and indirect engagements, even while moving. It can also fire indirectly at targets up to 8 km away.

The Cockerill LCTS 90MP turret stands out for its ability to maintain high stability and safety due to its low recoil, making it ideal for light firing platforms. It uses high-explosive (HE) ammunition and has effective anti-armor capabilities, making it well-suited for various combat scenarios, including armed reconnaissance missions. This turret system is widely deployed around the world, with more than 300 units in service.

Technically, the Akrep II retains its impressive specifications. It can accommodate a crew of three (driver, commander, and gunner) and has a total weight of 15,500 kg. With a length of 5.9 meters, a width of 2.5 meters, and a hull height of 1.975 meters, combined with a ground clearance of 400 mm, the vehicle maintains a low profile while delivering excellent performance on the ground.

The Akrep II 4X4 light armored vehicle is available in several powertrain configurations, including diesel, hybrid, and electric versions. These options not only meet specific operational needs but also reduce the vehicle’s thermal and acoustic signature, especially important for stealth and reconnaissance missions. The diesel version is powered by a 360-horsepower engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission, ensuring robust performance in demanding environments.

The vehicle also includes a range of standard features, such as a central tire inflation system, radial tires with run-flat inserts, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), air conditioning and heating systems, five-point seat belts, and an enhanced vision system for the driver. Optional features include drive-by-wire technology, an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) filtration system, a self-recovery winch, and a 360° situational awareness system, offering complete visibility on the battlefield.

Based in Istanbul, Otokar is recognized in the defense sector for its continuous innovation in the design of armored vehicles. The Akrep II, with its John Cockerill turret, exemplifies Otokar’s expertise in developing advanced technological solutions tailored to the needs of modern battlefields. The vehicle’s flexibility and enhanced capabilities, thanks to the John Cockerill turret, make it a strategic asset for many armed forces worldwide.

In conclusion, the Akrep II, unveiled at SAHA 2024, is a striking example of Otokar’s commitment to providing defense solutions that meet contemporary challenges. With its John Cockerill turret and numerous possible configurations, this vehicle is ready to take on the challenges of modern military missions, ensuring maximum efficiency and adaptability in operational theaters.