Türkiye continues to strengthen its defense industry with significant strides in indigenous production. Under the leadership of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), the Tactical Wheeled Armored Vehicle Engine Project has reached a milestone with the integration of the 400-horsepower TUNA engines into the Turkish Armed Forces’ inventory. Developed by BMC Power, these engines have been mounted on VURAN 4x4 armored vehicles produced by BMC Defense.

According to the delivery plan, 50 VURAN vehicles will be handed over to the Land Forces Command, while 40 vehicles will enter the inventory of the Gendarmerie General Command. In addition, 7 engines will be kept as spares. With this step, Türkiye not only enhances the operational capabilities of its security forces but also reduces foreign dependency by employing domestically produced power units.

The scope of the TUNA project extends beyond VURAN vehicles. BMC Power is also preparing TUNA engines for the KİRPİ armored vehicles, with the first 10 units scheduled for production in the first quarter of 2024. Discussions between SSB and BMC Power are ongoing to expand the use of the TUNA engine across various land platforms, further boosting Türkiye’s defense autonomy.

The advancements are not limited to land platforms. BMC Power has also developed the 600-horsepower LEVEND engine for maritime applications. This engine will power the Marlin armed unmanned surface vehicle (AUSV), jointly developed by ASELSAN and Sefine Shipyard, with delivery expected by the end of the year. Additionally, BMC Power is collaborating with İŞBİR Elektrik Sanayii AŞ on a project to develop military-grade generators powered by indigenous engines.

The development of the TUNA engine began in 2018, followed by extensive endurance and performance testing in diverse climates, including Erzurum and Antalya. Successfully completing these rigorous trials, the TUNA engine has proven its reliability under challenging conditions. Today, its integration into the Turkish Armed Forces marks a crucial step in strengthening Türkiye’s defense industry independence and showcases the growing capability of national technology.