During the STEADFAST DART 26 NATO exercise, conducted with the participation of Türkiye and allied NATO nations, FNSS MAV (Marine Assault Vehicle) contributed to allied operations in the Baltic Sea alongside NATO and Turkish-based maritime task force. Following a ten-day deployment, the task group arrived at the Port of Kiel, joining the TCG Anadolu, TCG Oruçreis, TCG İstanbul, and the replenishment ship TCG Derya. The participation of MAV highlights the effective cooperation between the industry and the Turkish Armed Forces with NATO allies, showcasing their vital contribution to multinational maritime operations.
Heavy equipment and personnel moved by air, sea, and rail transport, as well as large-scale road convoys. The result: a logistical achievement that underscores NATO’s multinational operational capability as well as the efficiency of Germany as a hub providing “Host Nation Support.” Throughout the exercise, scenarios involving deployment and integrated air-sea-land operations were successfully executed. Turkish Navy Marine Infantry Battalion, conducting beach landing operations with FNSS MAVs, demonstrated a high level of interoperability with the marine units of allied NATO countries, in strict accordance with tactical scenarios.
The ZAHA Marine Assault Vehicle (MAV), is a tracked armoured amphibious combat vehicle manufactured by FNSS. The vehicle is in service with the Turkish Naval Forces. The vehicle is marketed in Turkey under the name ZAHA, an acronym derived from the Turkish phrase for Armored Amphibious Assault Vehicle. For international buyers, it is named as the FNSS MAV, which stands for Marine Assault Vehicle. The vehicle can both operate in land and water. The MAV can reach up to 7 knots of speed in the water, as well as 70km/h on land.
The APC (Armoured Personnel Carrier) variant of the ZAHA MAV is equipped with the CAKA Remote Controlled Turret, which is also manufactured by FNSS capable of mounting a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun or a 40 mm grenade launcher for increased combat versatility. The turret is armed with 12.7 mm MG (.50 Cal) and a 40 mm AGL (Automatic Grenade Launcher). The Command and Control Vehicle variant makes sure combat vehicles communication each other and coordination with TCG Anadolu.
