Türkiye’s ALTAY Main Battle Tank is entering a new phase of modernization as efforts to integrate the domestically developed BATU Power Group continue at full speed. While the first 85 units of ALTAY are being produced using powerpacks supplied by South Korea, the long-term goal is for the tank to operate entirely with a national engine and transmission system. The BATU project, developed by BMC Power, stands as one of the most significant milestones in Türkiye’s drive toward full independence in heavy armored vehicle technologies.

The opening of the BMC Ankara Tank and Next-Generation Armored Vehicle Production Facility marked a major step in Türkiye’s engine development capabilities. Turkish engineers and technicians have already demonstrated strong performance with the 400 hp TUNA engine—now in active use on VURAN and KİRPİ II vehicles—as well as ongoing development of 600, 1000, and 1500 hp power systems. These successes form the technological foundation for integrating BATU into the ALTAY platform.

Although the South Korean power group is expected to meet ALTAY’s production needs until 2028, project leaders emphasize that the BATU Power Group is planned to reach full maturity by late 2026. BMC Chairman Fuat Tosyalı highlighted this timeline during the ALTAY delivery ceremony, reaffirming the objective of preparing BATU-powered ALTAY tanks for fielding within the same period.

To meet this goal, both motor and transmission development activities have intensified. Testing is being conducted simultaneously at the Motor and Transmission Test Center in Arifiye as well as directly on the ALTAY platform. BATU-integrated ALTAY tanks are undergoing mobility tests, including endurance drives, climbing trials, and performance evaluations under varying environmental conditions such as heat, cold, and full-load operation. These tests aim to validate engine robustness, power delivery, cooling efficiency, and mechanical durability—critical factors for modern armored warfare.

Laboratory testing also continues with vibration, durability, thermal, and power cycle assessments, while transmission development advances in parallel. Ensuring seamless interaction between the engine and transmission is essential for achieving maximum torque output, reliability, and mobility on the battlefield.

With the successful integration of BATU, Türkiye will join the small group of nations capable of designing and producing both the engine and transmission of a main battle tank domestically. This achievement is expected to elevate Türkiye’s strategic autonomy and strengthen its long-term defense manufacturing capabilities.