Estonia Buys 100 Nurol Makina NMS 4×4 Tactical Wheeled Armoured Vehicles

The Estonian Centre for Defense Investment (ECDI) has finalized a significant contract with Nurol Makina a leading land systems manufacturer from Turkey. The deal encompasses the provision of 100 NMS 4×4 tactical wheeled armoured vehicles, inclusive of maintenance equipment and training services. Deliveries are slated to commence in the latter half of 2024 and conclude by 2025. The contracts for the wheeled armoured vehicles have a duration of ten years and allow for additional armoured vehicle and spare parts purchases if necessary. The estimated cost of the procurement is at around €70 Million, including Nurol Makina NMS 4×4 wheeled vehicles, as well as documentation, training, special tools and equipment, and spare parts.The signing ceremony was held on 18 October in Tallinn, in which Magnus Valdemar Saar, Director General of ECDI signed the contract on behalf of Estonia and Engin Aykol, General Manager of Nurol Makina on behalf of his company.

Nurol Makina introduced the NMS 4×4, a cutting-edge light armoured vehicle, during the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul, Turkey, in May 2017. The vehicle showcased its impressive features once again at the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition and Conference (DIMIDEX) in Qatar in March 2018. Designed to meet the diverse needs of armed forces, the NMS 4×4 boasts anti-tank and anti-air defense capabilities, making it suitable for missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, combat, troop transport, and air defense operations. In 2017, the Qatar Army placed an order for approximately 100 NMS 4×4 vehicles from Nurol Makina, which were later featured in a military parade in December 2017. The demand for this versatile vehicle continued to grow, with the Qatar Army making another order in March 2018, this time for undisclosed quantities to equip the Special Forces of Qatar.

The NMS 4×4’s modular design features a conventional layout, with the engine at the front, a crew cab in the center, and a troop section at the rear. The four-wheel drive configuration is built on an indigenously developed chassis, with a monocoque hull structure that ensures strength and flexibility during missions. Weighing approximately 10,000kg, the vehicle provides ample space for nine occupants, including a driver, commander, and seven infantry troops. The vehicle’s hull is divided into three sections, with multiple doors for troop access. The NMS 4×4’s power plant propels it to a top speed of 140km/h and provides a remarkable range of 700km without requiring mid-supplies. The vehicle’s impressive mobility allows it to navigate steep side slopes of up to 40%, cross 0.9m-wide trenches, wade through shallow depths of 0.9m, and conquer obstacles as high as 0.5m. Independent suspension systems on both front and rear ends, advanced road grip technology, and low center of gravity enhance its mobility, while an anti-lock braking system (ABS) ensures stability and control during operations.

The NMS 4×4 offers flexibility, with three configurable variants for different mission requirements. It can transform into a scout vehicle, a personnel carrier, or an air defense system, catering to a wide range of operational needs.The armoured vehicle is equipped with a roof-mounted remote-controlled weapon system capable of carrying either a 7.62mm or 12.7mm calibre machine gun. Additionally, it can be fitted with a 40mm anti-tank missile launcher system in place of the machine gun. Protection is a priority, with the vehicle’s V-shaped hull design enhancing survivability. Ballistic glass panels secure the windshield and windows, while a reinforced structure guards against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive device (IED) explosions. Add-on armor options further increase the level of protection. Smoke grenade launchers, explosion suppression systems, and fire extinguishing systems bolster the safety of the occupants. Camera systems and a thermal imaging system enhance visibility during both day and night operations. The navigational aids include a military GPS and advanced tracking system.