Recent reports indicate the successful delivery of Nurol Makina Panthera 4×4 vehicles, known as Ejder Yalcin, to Lebanon for the Malaysian Peacekeeping Battalion (Malbatt) 850 mission. The procurement specifications outlined the transportation of the Panthera from the Nurol Makina factory to the port of Mersin via low loaders, then onward to Beirut port and eventually to the Malbatt’s Marakah camp in South Lebanon. Despite initial delays due to documentation issues, it’s confirmed that the twenty Pantheras are poised to achieve their Initial Operational Capability (IOC) this month. The Malaysian Defense reported the arrival of the vehicles in Lebanon earlier this year, although no official statement was released regarding their deployment until recently. The resolution of documentation hurdles has paved the way for the Pantheras to join the operational fleet. Malaysian Joint Force Command’s social media post further confirmed the Pantheras’ readiness, noting their UNIFIL plate numbers, akin to other Malaysian military vehicles stationed in the region.
The Nurol Ejder family of armored vehicles, including the 4×4 Ejder Yalcin, is manufactured by Turkish company Nurol Makina. Working with Turkish partner Nurol Makina, Malaysia-based Nadi Corp supply 20 Ejder Yalçin 4×4 wheeled armoured vehicles equipped with the Aselsan Stabilized Advanced Remote Weapon Platform (SARP) remote weapons station (RWS), featuring the Canik M2 12.7mm machine gun. This configuration allows for flexibility in combat scenarios, enabling manual firing of the weapon if necessary. The vehicles boast a V-shaped hull design, blast mitigation seating, and floating floor plates to enhance protection against mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). With a capacity to accommodate up to 11 personnel and carry payloads of up to 4 tons, the Ejder Yalcin 4×4 is a versatile platform suitable for various operational requirements. Its adaptability spans roles such as border surveillance, reconnaissance, command and control, anti-tank missions, as well as offering solutions for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) surveillance.
