Under the newly signed agreement, MKE will deliver six units of the BORAN howitzer along with a specified quantity of ammunition to the Albanian Armed Forces. The deal represents the first defense industry contract signed between two alliance members shortly before the upcoming NATO Summit in Turkey.
Developed indigenously by MKE engineers, the BORAN project achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by securing Turkey's first-ever howitzer export with a delivery to Bangladesh. Following an earlier export contract with North Macedonia, Albania becomes the second European and NATO member nation to integrate the Turkish artillery system into its inventory.
Weighing 1,775 kilograms, the BORAN stands out as one of the lightest weapon systems in its class. The platform's lightweight design allows rapid strategic deployment, making it transportable via tactical vehicles on land or airlifted by Sikorsky S-70 and Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
According to MKE technical specifications, the BORAN features an integrated, GPS-backed Fire Control System, panoramic optics, and rapid deployment capabilities. The system can be prepared for firing in less than one minute and maintains a standard firing rate of six rounds per minute.
In high-intensity operations, the howitzer is capable of executing 12 precise rounds within 33 seconds—a performance rate that MKE certifies as a world record in its class. Additionally, the system retains the distinct capability to fire directly from its wheeled platform, offering enhanced operational flexibility compared to conventional artillery units.
Defense analysts note that the BORAN's low weight, coupled with high fire agility, has positioned the system as a strong competitor in international procurement programs across Europe and Asia.