Turkey’s state-owned defense manufacturer Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE, the Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation) has presented its ALPAY-2 unmanned minefield breaching system ahead of the SAHA 2026 defense exhibition, highlighting a domestically developed capability designed to support combat engineers in high-threat environments. The ALPAY-2 system features a hybrid propulsion architecture powered by a fully electric motor supported by a generator, offering a reported operational range of up to 750 km. The platform is configured to deliver multiple firings and employs a rocket-propelled line charge with an explosive payload of up to 800 kg of C4. According to MKE, the system can engage targets at distances of up to 200 m, enabling stand-off breaching operations. Designed as a modular solution, ALPAY-2 is not tied to a dedicated armoured chassis and can be mounted on a trailer for transport by armoured personnel carriers, main battle tanks, or military trucks.
This approach allows operators to adapt the system to varying mission requirements and terrain conditions while reducing platform dependency and lifecycle costs. Operationally, the system is intended to clear safe lanes through dense minefields, neutralising both anti-tank and anti-personnel mines. MKE states that a single detonation can clear an area approximately 100 m in length, 10 m in width, and up to 1 m in depth, facilitating rapid manoeuvre by follow-on forces. The system can reportedly be prepared for firing by a two-person crew within 15 minutes and is designed for all-weather operations. The introduction of ALPAY-2 comes amid renewed emphasis on large-scale mine warfare, as demonstrated in ongoing conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.
In this context, the development of an indigenous breaching capability underscores Ankara’s focus on defence industrial autonomy and expeditionary flexibility. MKE indicates that earlier ALPAY variants have already been deployed in border security roles, supporting Turkish forces operating in mine-affected areas. The enhanced payload and multi-shot capability of ALPAY-2 suggest a shift toward higher-capacity breaching operations aligned with contemporary manoeuvre warfare requirements. With its modular architecture and domestically sourced components, ALPAY-2 is also positioned as a potential export offering for partner nations requiring scalable and cost-effective mine-clearing solutions, including those engaged in coalition operations or humanitarian demining missions.
MKE established in 1950, is a reorganization of government-controlled group of factories in Turkey that supplied the Turkish Armed Forces with military products. The corporation mainly produces equipment for the Turkish Armed Forces, such as the ammunition for small arms and heavy weapons, artillery systems, aerial bombs, mines, explosives, and rockets. MKE also manufactures civil-purpose products such as steel, brass, and electrical parts and equipment. Its large range of defense industry products are not only demanded in Turkey, but are exported to more than 40 countries worldwide. In 2011, the company has sold military products to 29 countries worldwide. MKE decided to increase its production capacity by investing $818 million in Ankara and Kırıkkale in 2025. The first smoothbore gun for Altay main battle tank was introduced in 2011.
