Main battle tanks, while not particularly fast in terms of mobility, are the most effective armored vehicles in the military due to their firepower and the armor they carry. The most crucial aspects for a tank to fulfill its mission and support its user operationally are its firepower and mobility. In the past, tanks had very thick armor and were therefore heavy and cumbersome. However, with advances in technology and the emergence of different materials, tanks' capabilities have increased in every aspect.

 Tanks have gained the ability to fire from longer distances and with greater accuracy thanks to evolving weapon technology. In light of all these developments, main battle tanks have emerged that can provide fire support on the battlefield and engage in one-on-one combat with other tanks.  The Altay Main Battle Tank project in Turkey began under the framework of a national tank production project in 2007, following a meeting of the Defense Industry Executive Committee. It was initiated by Otokar Defense under the leadership of the Presidency of Defense Industries. Subsequently, in 2018, the contract was renewed with BMC, and it has continued to the present day.