FNSS is set to unveil enhanced configurations of its ZAHA (Armored Amphibious Assault Vehicle) at the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), integrating advanced anti-tank weapon systems that significantly increase its firepower and operational versatility in amphibious operations.
Developed to bridge naval and ground forces during amphibious assaults, ZAHA enables rapid and secure deployment of troops from ship to shore. With superior mobility and maneuverability, especially in challenging coastal terrains and island environments, ZAHA serves as a strategic force multiplier.
FNSS previously delivered ZAHA vehicles to the Turkish Naval Forces in 2023, equipped with ÇAKA Remote Controlled Turret (RCT) systems featuring 12.7mm machine guns and 40mm automatic grenade launchers. The ÇAKA system, named after the legendary Turkish naval commander Çaka Bey, has since evolved into a full turret family.
New ÇAKA Variants to Be Showcased with ZAHA
At IDEF 2025, FNSS will present the ÇAKA 30/AT-O turret system integrated onto ZAHA for the first time. This upgraded turret features a locally produced CANiK VENOM LR 30mm automatic cannon, offering high firepower, accuracy, and low recoil. It is also equipped with two ready-to-fire ROKETSAN OMTAS anti-tank missiles, extending ZAHA’s lethality against heavy armor, fortified positions, light vehicles, and airborne threats such as drones.
Another new turret configuration to be displayed is the ÇAKA AT-K, which integrates a CANiK M2 QCB 12.7mm heavy machine gun and two ROKETSAN KARAOK short-range anti-tank missiles, offering effective direct fire support in various combat environments.
Both turrets are designed for lightweight integration and can be mounted not only on amphibious or land platforms but also on coast guard vessels, fast attack boats, and other manned or unmanned surface platforms. All subsystems—including firepower components, vision units, motion control systems, fire control computers, and software—are indigenously developed in Türkiye.
Strengthening Amphibious Operations with Precision Firepower
According to FNSS Director of Vehicle Electronics and Weapon Systems, Serkan Balbay, the ZAHA project began under a 2017 contract and saw initial deliveries in 2023. With the commissioning of TCG Anadolu, Türkiye’s largest amphibious assault ship, ZAHA has become a critical asset for naval infantry and amphibious missions.
“Only a few countries in the world produce such vehicles,” said Balbay. “ZAHA is a highly capable platform for rapid assaults and neutralizing coastal threats.”
Balbay noted that ZAHA’s original armament package already provides significant fire superiority. The new ÇAKA AT turret, equipped with anti-tank guided missiles and a 30mm cannon, further expands its role by offering short- and medium-range precision strike capabilities, allowing Turkish naval forces to secure contested beaches with enhanced lethality.
He also emphasized ZAHA’s strong troop transport capacity and proven sea performance in exercises and field deployments. With the addition of these new weapon systems, FNSS aims to elevate ZAHA’s operational value even further.
Growing International Interest
Balbay revealed increasing international interest in ZAHA, particularly from maritime nations such as Indonesia. “With the integration of the anti-tank weapon system, ZAHA is now better positioned for the export market,” he said. “We are already in talks with several countries, and preliminary agreements are in place. In the near future, we expect to see ZAHA entering the inventories of foreign armed forces.”
The unveiling at IDEF 2025 will mark a significant milestone in the evolution of Türkiye’s indigenous amphibious warfare capabilities and reinforce ZAHA’s position as a competitive and highly modular solution for modern amphibious operations.
