Türkiye's Otokar Strengthens Its Position in Middle East Market with Latest Generation of Combat Vehicles.

During IDEX 2025, a defense exhibition in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Turkish company Otokar displayed its latest generation of wheeled and tracked combat vehicles, further strengthening its position in the Middle East defense market. The company, which has a global footprint with over 33,000 military vehicles in the inventories of more than 70 end users worldwide, continues to gain momentum in the region with advanced solutions tailored to the specific demands of military and security forces. Otokar’s presence at this prestigious event in Abu Dhabi, which was held from February 17 to 21, 2025, highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative land systems.
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The highlight of Otokar's booth at IDEX 2025: The TULPAR Light Tank, fitted with the powerful Leonardo 120mm HITFACT MkII turret, delivering exceptional firepower and battlefield effectiveness. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Otokar’s reputation in the Middle East is supported not only by its cutting-edge vehicle portfolio but also by its strategic partnerships and contracts with several key regional customers. A notable example is Otokar's recent contract with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the supply of Rabdan 8x8 Armored Fighting Vehicles. This agreement underscores Otokar’s growing presence in the UAE’s defense sector, marking a significant milestone for the Turkish manufacturer. The Rabdan vehicle, which was developed as part of Otokar's collaboration with the UAE Armed Forces, is designed to meet the operational needs of modern military engagements, with a focus on high mobility, battlefield survivability, and advanced firepower capabilities.

At IDEX 2025, Otokar showcased several vehicles, including the COBRA II 4x4 Tactical Armored Vehicle, the ARMA series of wheeled armored vehicles, and the TULPAR Modular Armored Tracked Vehicle, each reflecting Otokar’s commitment to offering flexible, robust solutions for a variety of defense applications.

The COBRA II, equipped with a 12.7 mm Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS), was highlighted for its versatility in a wide range of operational environments. It is designed to provide high mobility and superior protection while maintaining the ability to engage both ground and aerial threats. With its compact design and powerful armament, the COBRA II is particularly suited for both tactical and peacekeeping missions, making it a valuable asset for forces engaged in urban combat or counter-insurgency operations.

Otokar also showcased its ARMA 6x6 and ARMA 8x8 Wheeled Armored Vehicles, which come equipped with the MIZRAK turret. The 6x6 version features a 25 mm turret, while the 8x8 model boasts a 30 mm turret. These vehicles are designed for high-intensity combat and provide excellent mobility and protection across various terrains. The ARMA series is ideal for a range of mission profiles, from convoy protection to direct fire support, thanks to its modular design and powerful armament.

Additionally, the TULPAR Modular Armored Tracked Vehicle, which features the 120 mm HITFACT MkII Leonardo turret, was displayed as an example of Otokar’s ability to deliver heavy fire support capabilities. The TULPAR is designed for both offensive and defensive operations, offering unparalleled protection for troops while delivering significant firepower in battlefield scenarios.

The showcase at IDEX 2025 also underscored Otokar’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the Middle East through both product offerings and new contracts. The Rabdan contract with the UAE is just one example of Otokar’s growing list of successes in the region. The vehicle’s unique combination of mobility, firepower, and survivability has made it a standout choice for the UAE’s defense requirements. The UAE Armed Forces have chosen the Rabdan as a central element in their modernized armored vehicle fleet, reflecting confidence in Otokar’s ability to deliver advanced, reliable solutions tailored to the region's specific needs.

Otokar's strategic focus on the Middle East is further evidenced by its close ties with other regional customers and its growing footprint in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait. The company’s emphasis on providing flexible, adaptable, and high-performance systems positions it as a strong contender in the Middle East’s competitive defense market. By continuously innovating and refining its vehicle technologies, Otokar is not only catering to current demands but is also preparing to meet the future challenges faced by military forces in the region.

With a wide range of armored vehicles designed to meet the complex and dynamic requirements of modern military operations, Otokar remains a key player in the global defense industry. The company’s participation at IDEX 2025 highlights its commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and offering world-class solutions for military forces and security agencies engaged in high-stakes operations. As Otokar continues to build on its relationships with Middle Eastern clients, its growing portfolio of advanced land systems is set to play a critical role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of regional armed forces.