Canik Upgraded BMP-1 Vehicle at MSPO 2026
The retrofit replaces legacy turrets with a remote weapon station to modernize stored infantry fighting vehicles.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Robotics
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In September 2026, Canik demonstrated a proof-of-concept upgrade for the BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicle at the MSPO exhibition in Kielce, Poland. This research-stage modification replaces the original turret with a remote weapon station.
Why it matters
This concept provides a low-cost modernization path for legacy armoured vehicle fleets currently held in storage. By upgrading aging platforms with modern, remotely operated weaponry, operators can increase lethality while remaining under armour.
The system incorporates an AEI Systems 30x113 mm Venom LR cannon, weighing 400 kg empty and 650 kg fully loaded with 150 rounds. This demonstrator marks the first installation of the Trakon Core 30 remote weapon station on a tracked vehicle platform.
The players
Canik
A subsidiary of Samsun Yurt Savunma Group focused on the design and production of military-grade firearms and weapon systems.
Unirobotics
A division of Samsun Yurt Savunma Group specializing in remote weapon station integration and automated defense technologies.
AEI Systems
A defense firm under the Samsun Yurt Savunma Group umbrella that manufactures medium-caliber cannons and weapon hardware.
The details
The upgrade process involves removing the original turret and armament entirely, substituting it with the Unirobotics Trakon Core 30 remote weapon station (a system that allows external weapons to be fired from inside a protected space). Operators manage the system via an internal display, allowing them to track and engage targets while remaining fully protected under the vehicle's armour. The modification is designed specifically to interface with existing legacy hull structures.
Timeline
September 2026: Canik demonstrated the upgraded BMP-1 at MSPO 2026.
The Tech Race
This development follows a growing trend of refurbishing legacy armoured vehicles to avoid the cost of procuring entirely new platforms. It positions the Samsun Yurt Savunma Group companies to capture contracts for upgrading the significant stockpiles of tracked vehicles found throughout Eastern Europe.
This modernization concept is intended for military forces looking to retroactively improve the combat capability of their existing tracked vehicle fleets. Future adoption will depend on the demonstrated reliability of the Trakon Core 30 and its compatibility with various legacy hulls.
The takeaway
The move suggests a shifting focus toward modular, drop-in upgrades that prioritize vehicle lifecycle extension over new manufacturing. Watch for future integration trials on different tracked chassis to see if this configuration becomes a standard offering for legacy fleet maintenance.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in military automation within our Robotics section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Janes.
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