Turkey sets Leopard 2A4 upgrade in motion with no sign of Altay
Graphic showing the Leopard 2A4 before (right) and after modernisation. (Image: SSB)
Technologies used in the delay-plagued Altay MBT programme will be installed on Turkish Leopard 2A4s in a new modernisation programme.
A partial modernisation programme has begun for the Turkish Land Forces’ fleet of Leopard 2A4 MBTs, following an announcement by the SSB procurement agency in late January 2022.
According to the SSB, the programme — named Improving Tanks with Extra Capabilities (TIYK- LEO 2A4) — intends to establish ‘logistical unity in terms of operation, maintenance, and maintenance’ by combining technologies already used in the M60T and indigenously developed Altay MBT.
The Turkish Land Forces particularly require enhancements to the survivability, fire control, and mobility capabilities of its MBTs ‘while taking changing threats, fields of service, and activity expectations into account’,
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![AUSA 2026: companies adapt munitions and missiles for greater effect at lower costs]()
AUSA 2026: companies adapt munitions and missiles for greater effect at lower costs
Rather than developing entirely new weapons, defence companies are looking to build on existing weapons and systems to deliver greater capability, control costs and accelerate fielding.
-
![With changing patterns in Middle Eastern procurement, is Europe missing out?]()
With changing patterns in Middle Eastern procurement, is Europe missing out?
Traditional suppliers are struggling to meet the Middle East’s armoured vehicle modernisation needs, creating opportunities for South Korean manufacturers and regional defence industries.
-
![AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements]()
AUSA 2026: CUAS market expands as suppliers target new threats and operational requirements
New developments from MARSS, MyDefence, Mountain Horse Solutions and Rafael suggest that future counter-drone protection will increasingly depend on combining advanced detection, rapid interception and integrated defensive networks.
