Katmerciler has completed the first deliveries of its upgraded HIZIR 4×4 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles to the Turkish Armed Forces under a procurement program led by Türkiye’s Ministry of National Defense.
Developed in line with the operational requirements of the Turkish Armed Forces, the new-generation HIZIR vehicles are designed to provide high ballistic protection, strong mine resistance and superior mobility in challenging field conditions.
The first batch has now entered the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces, while production activities continue at Katmerciler’s facilities. The remaining deliveries under the project are planned to be completed by the end of the year.
Upgraded Configuration for Modern Operations
The latest version of HIZIR has been developed in accordance with NATO standards and features a new three-door body configuration.
The vehicle has a personnel capacity of five and is designed to meet the needs of modern military operations, where mobility, survivability and integrated mission systems are critical.
The upgraded HIZIR can be equipped with domestically developed defense systems, including remote-controlled weapon station solutions. These systems are expected to increase the vehicle’s firepower, situational awareness and battlefield survivability.
400 HP Engine and High Mobility
The new-generation HIZIR is powered by a 400 horsepower engine and features a fully automatic transmission.
The vehicle offers a 70 percent gradient climbing capability, high maneuverability and user-friendly driving characteristics. These features allow HIZIR to operate effectively in difficult terrain, harsh weather conditions and demanding operational environments.
Key Features of New-Generation HIZIR
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | 4×4 MRAP |
| Engine Power | 400 hp |
| Personnel Capacity | 5 |
| Body Configuration | 3-door |
| Transmission | Fully automatic |
| Gradient Climbing Capability | 70 percent |
| Protection | High mine and ballistic protection |
| Standard | NATO-compatible |
Katmerciler Targets Further Deliveries and Exports
Katmerciler Executive Vice Chairman Furkan Katmerci stated that the company is proud to deliver the first new-generation HIZIR vehicles developed for the modern operational needs of the Turkish Armed Forces.
Katmerci emphasized that the renewed HIZIR 4×4 was designed to operate under the most difficult geographical and climatic conditions and to strengthen the field capability of Turkish soldiers with its mine and ballistic protection.
He also noted that international interest in the HIZIR platform continues to grow, especially from friendly and allied countries. Katmerciler aims to sign new international contracts during the year as part of its export-focused growth strategy.
Strategic Importance
The delivery of the upgraded HIZIR vehicles strengthens Türkiye’s domestic armored vehicle ecosystem and supports the Turkish Armed Forces with a locally produced protected mobility platform.
With its high protection level, powerful engine, improved mobility and integration of domestic mission systems, HIZIR is positioned as a modern 4×4 MRAP solution for both national and international users.
The delivery also reflects Türkiye’s broader defense industry strategy: reducing foreign dependency, increasing local production and turning combat-ready platforms into exportable solutions for allied countries.
