TULPAR’s primary operational role is to provide protected, mobile, and lethal support to mechanized infantry units operating in close coordination with main battle tanks. Unlike lighter IFVs optimized for rapid deployment, TULPAR is designed with an emphasis on survivability and sustained combat performance in high-threat environments, including conventional peer-level warfare.

From a doctrinal perspective, TULPAR supports combined-arms operations, enabling mechanized infantry to maneuver under heavy armor protection while maintaining sufficient firepower to suppress, neutralize, or destroy enemy armored and soft targets. Its tracked configuration ensures mobility parity with tanks across soft soil, mud, snow, and rugged terrain.

The platform follows a modular vehicle architecture, allowing the same base hull to be configured for multiple roles such as infantry fighting vehicle, reconnaissance, command and control, fire support, or specialized mission variants. This modularity applies not only to armor packages but also to turrets, sensors, and electronic subsystems.

Survivability is a core design pillar. TULPAR integrates modular ballistic armor, enhanced mine and IED protection, shock-absorbing internal linings, and automated fire and explosion suppression systems. Its low silhouette and IR-suppressive paint reduce detectability against both visual and infrared sensors.

In terms of lethality, TULPAR is equipped with a modern stabilized turret and fire control system, enabling accurate fire on the move, day or night, and in adverse weather conditions. Independent commander and gunner sights provide Hunter-Killer capability, significantly reducing engagement time in multi-target scenarios.

Mobility is ensured by a high-power diesel engine and a heavy-duty suspension system designed to support combat weights up to 45 tons. This allows TULPAR to retain agility despite high protection levels. Strategic mobility is further enhanced by A400M air transport compatibility, enabling rapid deployment when required.

Detailed Technical Information

Dimensions and Weight

• Combat weight: 28–45 tons (configuration-dependent)
• Length: ~7,200 mm
• Width: ~3,450 mm
• Height: ~2,100 mm
• Ground clearance: ~450 mm

Powerpack and Mobility

• Engine: Turbocharged diesel, 700–1100 hp range
• Common configuration: 720 hp V8, 16-liter, water-cooled
• Transmission: Automatic with torque converter, 6 forward / 4 reverse gears
• Suspension: Heavy-duty tracked suspension rated up to 45 tons

Performance

• Maximum speed: Over 70 km/h
• Operational range: Up to 600 km
• Gradient capability: 60%
• Side slope capability: 40%
• Fording depth: ~1,500 mm (without preparation)

Sensors and Observation

• Commander and gunner independent sights
• Thermal imaging and CCD day cameras
• Laser rangefinder
• Hunter-Killer engagement capability

Fire Control and Engagement

• Fully stabilized turret
• Digital fire control system with ballistic computation
• Day/night, all-weather firing capability
• Engagement while on the move

Armament

• Main weapon: 30 mm dual-feed automatic cannon (typical IFV configuration)
• Coaxial weapon: 7.62 mm machine gun
• Armament options may vary depending on turret and customer requirements

Command, Control, and Electronics

• Digital open architecture: ARMATRONICS
• Supports integration of BMS, C2 systems, and mission equipment
• Designed for network-enabled operations

Protection

• Modular ballistic armor (mission-dependent levels)
• Enhanced mine and IED protection
• Automatic fire and explosion suppression
• CBRN protection system
• IR-suppressive camouflage paint

Crew and Capacity

• Total capacity: Up to 12 personnel (crew + dismounts, configuration-dependent)

Deployment and Logistics

• Tracked mobility for heavy terrain
• A400M air transport compatible in selected configurations
• Designed for rapid role adaptation through modular subsystems

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TULPAR used for?

• TULPAR is designed to transport and support mechanized infantry while operating alongside main battle tanks, providing protection, firepower, and mobility in high-threat environments.

What is its maximum range and speed?

• It has an operational range of up to 600 km and a maximum road speed exceeding 70 km/h.

What types of threats can it withstand?

• TULPAR is protected against ballistic threats, artillery fragments, mines, and IEDs, with protection levels adjustable through modular armor.

Can it fight at night and in bad weather?

• Yes. Thermal sights, CCD cameras, and a modern fire control system enable full day/night and all-weather operations.

Is TULPAR mobile or fixed?

• It is a fully mobile tracked platform with both tactical and strategic mobility, including A400M air transport capability.

How does it differ from other IFVs?

• Its key differentiators are high growth potential, strong engine options, heavy protection philosophy, and a modular design optimized for tank-level operations.

Sources

• Otokar official TULPAR product brochures
• Public defense exhibition materials (IDEF)
• Open-source defense industry analyses