Hungary has announced the signing of a framework agreement with Nurol Makina, a leading Turkish defense company, for the production of up to 600 Nurol Makina 4×4 vehicles. The agreement, inked in October 2023, encompasses the Gidrán version of the Ejder Yalçin, specially modified for deployment by the Hungarian Defence Forces (HDF), alongside various versions and sizes of Nurol Makina’s NMS vehicle. The manufacturing of these vehicles is slated to take place in Gyor, located in northwestern Hungary, marking a strategic step towards enhancing the country’s self-sufficiency in defense production. Nurol Makina Hungary, a subsidiary established for this purpose, sees this collaboration not just as a partnership between industrial leaders and government bodies but as a testament to the commitment to stable and sustainable production of Gidrán 4×4 armored vehicles.
Hungary has already received two batches of 50 Gidráns each, ordered in 2020 and 2022 respectively. The initial delivery of 10 Gidráns has been assigned to the HDF’s 2nd Special Operations Forces Brigade, with plans to deploy additional vehicles to infantry battalions of the 5th Infantry Brigade. These vehicles will replace the aging BTR-80 armored personnel carriers, showcasing Hungary’s dedication to maintaining a modern and robust defense force. The agreement extends beyond the mere acquisition of military vehicles. Nurol Makina Hungary has joined forces with Rába Járm?ipari Holding Nyrt. to establish a joint venture, aiming for the development and production of Gidrán 4×4 armored vehicles. The partnership emphasizes the involvement of domestic suppliers, intending to maximize Hungarian added value during assembly and production.
The joint venture, signed by Rába Jármuipari Holding Nyrt. and Nurol Makina ve Sanayi AS, with countersigning from N7 Holding Zrt. and the Hungarian Ministry of Defense, highlights a collaborative effort between international industry leaders and local authorities. The production activity is set to commence at the RÁBA site in Gyor, reinforcing the commitment to economic growth and technological development within Hungary. Nurol Makina Hungary, in addition to its focus on vehicle production, has expressed its dedication to supporting projects in collaboration with István Széchenyi University in Gyor and Hungarian defense industry companies. These projects aim at developing subsystems and incorporating new technologies, further solidifying Hungary’s position in the global defense landscape.
