Turkey presents the ZMA-X ground attack drone. Photo: X @SavunmaSanayiST
The Turkish company Aselsan revealed its latest development, the ZMA-X ground attack drone, during Teknofest 2024.
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This unmanned system was designed based on an armored personnel carrier, providing an innovative solution for battlefield operations.
The ZMA-X, which utilizes the chassis of the ACV-15 armored personnel carrier, is now fully unmanned and equipped with the Neger combat module. This combat vehicle is designed to accompany manned units, provide fire support for infantry, conduct reconnaissance, and optionally perform logistical tasks.
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To enhance its operational capability, the ZMA-X has received a series of modifications. The chassis manufacturer, FNSS, installed additional armor plates to protect against 14.5×114 mm ammunition. Additionally, Aselsan integrated long-range laser sensors (lidar) to facilitate navigation in difficult terrains.
The ACV-15, the base of the ZMA-X, is a vehicle developed in Turkey that derives from the American AIFV, which in turn originates from the M113A1 armored vehicle. FNSS has produced over 2,200 units of this model for the Turkish Land Forces.
The original armored vehicle is equipped with a Detroit Diesel 6V-53T diesel engine producing 300 hp, allowing a maximum speed of 65 km/h and a range of 490 km. The ACV-15 features a tracked chassis with torsion bar suspension, providing good off-road capability and the ability to cross water obstacles, although it is unclear if these features have been maintained in the ZMA-X after the addition of a 1.7-ton turret and extra armor.
The Neger combat module, also known as SARP 100/25, developed by Aselsan, is designed to destroy ground targets. Equipped with optical devices for all weather conditions and a fire control system with automatic target tracking, the module is armored according to STANAG 4569 level II, protecting against small arms. It can carry 240 rounds of 25 mm ammunition and a belt of 500 rounds for a 7.62 mm machine gun.
The introduction of the ZMA-X represents a significant advancement in the combat capabilities of the Turkish armed forces, highlighting the increasing innovation in the country’s defense sector.
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Photos: X @SavunmaSanayiST. Video: X @Aselsan. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
