Unmanned Ground Vehicles: Turkey and Egypt’s Strategic Agreement
Turkey has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Egypt aimed at the local production of sophisticated unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in Cairo. This landmark agreement will see the Kader Advanced Industrial Factory collaborate with Havelsan, a prominent defense company based in Ankara, to produce UGV systems tailored to meet both nations’ defense needs.
As part of this deal, Havelsan will not only transfer its engineering expertise but will also provide necessary licensing support, ensuring a successful collaborative production process. According to Şevket Ünal, Deputy General Manager of Havelsan, this partnership exemplifies the mutual goal of enhancing military capabilities held by both Turkey and Egypt. He expressed pride in co-producing advanced UGVs, characterizing this initiative as a significant stride in reinforcing their collective defense strategies.
Innovative Design Points to Future Applications
Havelsan has made a name for itself as a leading force in autonomous systems that cater to a wide array of military operations, including surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and border security. A notable product from the company is the Barkan UGV, known for its advanced capabilities and ability to maneuver through difficult terrains while offering fire support to ground troops.
However, a Havelsan representative clarified that the UGV to be developed in Egypt will not simply replicate the Barkan model. Instead, this new vehicle will feature a distinct design specifically tailored to fulfill the operational requirements of the Egyptian military and the unique challenges present in the Middle East. The prototype’s development is expected to commence in just a few weeks, with plans for a grand reveal during the Egypt Defense Expo scheduled for December 2025.
