Katmerciler at IDEF, with both HIZIR MPAV and Level 2 UGV, signs collaboration agreement on EREN 4×4 with Malaysian company Deftech.
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Press Release, Izmir, 22 July 2025: Katmerciler, the innovative and dynamic force of the Turkish defence sector, is participating in the 17th International Defence Industry Fair IDEF’25, taking place at the Istanbul Expo Centre from July 22-27, 2025, with two superior vehicles.
The 4×4 Mine-Resistant Armoured Vehicle HIZIR, the most powerful combat vehicle in its segment in Turkey and notable for its high export potential, and the Medium-Class Level 2 Unmanned Ground Vehicle (O-IKA 2), the first example of the remote-controlled, tracked, and unmanned ground vehicle (UAV) concept in Turkey, can be seen at the UGV Katmerciler booth.
Founded in 1985, publicly traded on the Borsa Istanbul since 2010, Katmerciler, with production facilities in Ankara and Izmir, designs and develops its own vehicles with a strong R&D Centre and qualified workforce, welcomes visitors at its booth. At the stand, where the two vehicles can be seen, it’s possible to obtain detailed information about Katmerciler’s extensive portfolio of defence and logistics vehicles. Here are the key features and advantages of the HIZIR and UGV, which Katmerciler will be showcasing at the fair
HIZIR – IED & High Protection Against Mine: Launched in 2016 by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the 4×4 Ballistic and Mine-Protected Tactical Wheeled Armoured Vehicle, HIZIR, has garnered international acclaim and recognition as the most powerful combat vehicle in its segment. Its superior features have garnered international acclaim, not only entered Turkey’s inventory but also quickly becoming a major export asset for our country and entering the inventories of friendly nations.
Like other Katmerciler vehicles, HIZIR is a product of Turkish engineering and was developed to NATO standards. Its robust armour and V-shaped monocoque body provide high protection against mines and IEDs. The mine-resistant, energy-absorbing seat enhances personnel protection.
Powered by a 400-horsepower vehicle engine, HIZIR is designed for high performance under intense combat conditions in rural and urban areas. Its remotely controlled, stabilised weapon system allows it to engage both mobile and moving targets. With a crew capacity of nine, able to reach speeds of 120 kilometres per hour, the vehicle boasts a 70% climb rate, the highest in the industry.
UGV – The First Example of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle in Our Country: The Remote-Controlled Firing Platform, the first example of the Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) concept in our country and also known as Turkey’s first unmanned mini tank, is the first product of Katmerciler’s UGV concept. The UGV is a tracked platform with all functions remotely controlled via a control kit and easily configured to meet different needs.
The Medium-Range Level 2 Unmanned Ground Vehicle (O-UGV 2), equipped with Aselsan’s SARP firing turret, aka the Remote-Controlled Stabilised Weapon System, and a satellite communication system, is preparing to enter the Turkish defence sector through the Katmerciler-Aselsan collaboration. As with UAVs and UCAVs, this capability, possessed by only a few countries worldwide, could further increase Turkey’s export potential.
The vehicle, capable of firing at both mobile and moving targets with its remote-controlled stabilised weapon system, features an automatic target tracking system. Features such as day and night vision, ballistic calculation, range finding, computer-based fire control functions, ammunition out warning, and the ability to manually operate, when necessary, make the vehicle more effective and efficient.
Systems such as an electro-optical system, radar system, and communication system, which will operate in coordination with the SARP system, can also be integrated into the vehicle. Remote control is possible from up to 5 kilometres via the satellite control system. The vehicle is available in electric and hybrid models.
The vehicle, boasting superior operational capabilities, has a payload capacity of up to one ton. Other features include 60 percent gradability, 40 percent side slope, 900mm trench crossing, and 400mm vertical obstacle crossing.
UGV also serves as a platform for developing vehicles for a wide range of functions. It can be transformed into a border and reconnaissance observation vehicle with the installation of thermal and mobile cameras and sensors. It is also functional in mine clearance. A bulletproof chamber can be built onto the platform, allowing it to be used to rescue casualties from conflict zones. It can carry payloads, military ammunition, and equipment, and tow heavy vehicles when necessary.
New Collaborations: Katmerciler’s Executive Officer Mr. Furkan KATMERCİ announced that IDEF 2025 Fair will host a new collaboration. A collaboration agreement will be signed between KATMERCILER and the Malaysian company DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies (DEFTECH) for EREN-4×4 High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicles. The signing will be conducted at the fair on 24 July 2025 and will be carried out between Katmerciler CEO, Mr. Mehmet KATMERCİ, on behalf of Katmerciler and Mr. Mohammad Shanaz bin Mohammad Shees, DEFTECH CEO on behalf of DEFTECH.
This collaboration agreement is set to strengthen the working relationship between Katmerciler and DEFTECH and galvanise potential Transfer of Technology between both companies with regards to design, manufacturing, assembly and supply of the EREN 4×4 for Malaysia.
The EREN 4×4, whose intellectual and proprietary rights belong to Katmerciler, is fast, powerful, dynamic, highly manoeuvrable, ergonomic, and versatile, easy-to-maintain. Designed by Katmerciler, it features a reinforced monocoque body that provides high ballistic and mine protection. It is a temperature-independent vehicle designed for operations in all climates, particularly in confined spaces and populated areas, designed to meet the limits of security forces.
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