Katmerciler at IDEF with Hızır and UGV, Katmerciler Signs Collaboration Agreement With Malaysian Company, Deftech

Katmerciler at IDEF with Hızır and UGV,

Katmerciler Signs Collaboration Agreement With Malaysian Company, Deftech

• Katmerciler, the dynamic force of the Turkish defense industry, is showcasing its 4×4 Mine-Protected Armored Vehicle HIZIR and its Medium-Class Level 2 Unmanned Ground Vehicle UGV from its extensive defense portfolio at IDEF’25, the 17th International Defense Industry Fair.

 

Katmerciler, the innovative and dynamic force of the Turkish defense sector, is participating in the 17th International Defense Industry Fair IDEF’25, taking place at the Istanbul Expo Center from July 22-27, 2025, with two superior vehicles.

The 4×4 Mine-Resistant Armored Vehicle HIZIR, the most powerful combat vehicle in its segment in Turkey and notable for its high export potential, and the Middle-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 Center and qualified workforce, welcomes visitors at booth 4-A03 in Hall 4. At the stand, where the two vehicles can be seen, it’s possible to obtain detailed information about Katmerciler’s extensive portfolio of defense 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 Armored 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 armor 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, stabilized weapon system allows it to engage both mobile and moving targets. With a crew capacity of nine, able to reach speeds of 120 kilometers 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 (UGV), 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 Stabilized Weapon System, and a satellite communication system, is preparing to enter the Turkish defense 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 stabilized 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 gradeability, 40 percent side slope, 900 mm trench crossing, and 400 mm 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 fairgrounds at 12.30PM 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 4X4, 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.

 

About KATMERCILER

Katmerciler, a leading company in the Turkish defense sector, was founded in 1985. With its wide range of products and solutions tailored to the diverse needs of the armed forces and security forces, it is a strong solution partner and supplier to Turkey and friendly countries.

The company believes that the knowledge, experience, and awareness gained by the Turkish Armed Forces and security forces over many years in the fight against domestic and foreign terrorism are crucial in new product development. It develops its defense products by maximizing the benefits of this valuable experience and the opportunities offered by advanced technologies.

Acclaimed for its innovative and creative products, the company designs and develops all of its vehicles in its own R&D Center. As a dynamic force in the defense industry, it attracts attention and attention both nationally and internationally.

The company, with a broad and robust portfolio of defense vehicles, categorizes its products into five main categories: 4×4 Tactical Wheeled Armored Vehicles, Special Products, Armored Construction Equipment, Mission-Oriented Special Purpose Vehicles, and Armored Logistics Vehicles.

Katmerciler’s defense portfolio includes the following vehicles: 4×4 Mine-Resistant Armored Vehicles HIZIR and HIZIR II, 4×4 High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicles EREN, Remote-Controlled Firing Platform UGV, an Unmanned Ground Vehicle described by the industry as a “mini tank,” 4×4 New Generation Criminal Investigation Vehicle KIRAÇ, 4×4 Border Security Vehicle ATEŞ, 4×4 Armored Personnel Carrier KHAN, Riot Control Vehicle (TOMA), Armored Ambulance, 4×4 Armored Command and Patrol Vehicle Stealth Armoring System NEFER, Protection Shield, Remote-Controlled Multi-Barrel Gas Launcher System, Remote-Controlled Armored Tracked Excavator, Armored Backhoe Loader, Remote-Controlled Armored Articulated Loader, and Remote-Controlled Armored Dozer. The company’s Armored Logistics Vehicles category includes Armored ADR-certified Fuel Tankers, Armored Buses, Armored Low-Bed Trailers, Armored Dumpers, Armored Water Tankers, Armored Telescopic Forklifts, Armored Bulldozers, and Armored Recovery Vehicles, all designed for use in conflict-ridden or high-risk regions.

As an export-focused company, Katmerciler exports to over 75 countries and has been publicly traded on the Borsa Istanbul since November 2010.

It has modern production facilities in the İzmir Çiğli Organized Industrial Zone and the Ankara Başkent Organized Industrial Zone. It has a robust R&D Center certified as an “R&D Production Center” by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Industry. With approximately 500 employees, 50 of whom are engineers, it is a constantly evolving company, a company that innovates in many areas with its self-confidence and innovative approach, can produce solutions tailored to needs, and makes a difference with its philosophy of not compromising on quality from production to after-sales services.

 

About DEFTECH

DRB-HICOM Defence Technologies Sdn Bhd (“DEFTECH”) is a premier defence company that sets the benchmark in the design, development, manufacturing and supply of armoured and logistics vehicles for both military and homeland security. DEFTECH is synonymous with the production of land systems as well as maintenance, repair & overhaul capabilities and has made forays into the domains of aerospace, unmanned systems and systems integration. In the commercial sector, DEFTECH is a preferred supplier for specialised vehicles and commercial buses. DEFTECH’s long-term strategy is to develop a fully indigenous land combat system as well as an airborne surveillance, control and combat system through strategic collaborations with various stakeholders. In doing so, DEFTECH aims to become Malaysia’s most comprehensive defence contractor. DEFTECH‘s Headquarters is located in Shah Alam, Selangor while its manufacturing plant is in Pekan, Pahang.