The Turkish Armed Forces’ Most Powerful Land Weapon: Always Prepared for Duty
Tank units play a crucial role in the land power of the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF), and their readiness for duty is maintained through rigorous training and exercises. The Tank School Command, under the Land Forces Command, offers a range of courses for officers, non-commissioned officers, and specialist sergeants to meet the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces.
Trainees at the Tank School Command undergo training on tank simulators, participate in exercises at the battalion task force level, and engage in field exercises with real tanks to develop their skills in driving, shooting, endurance, and maneuvering. Upon completion of training, officers and non-commissioned officers graduate as tank commanders, section commanders, and platoon commanders, while specialist non-commissioned officers and contracted soldiers graduate as tank crew members.
Specialization courses at the Tank School Command are conducted by experts in the field, including officers who have participated in operations such as Euphrates Shield, Olive Branch, and Peace Spring. Trainees receive technical training on the tanks they will operate, as well as tactical training on fire control systems, tank cannons, communication systems, and other equipment.
Tank crews are trained to operate as a team, with each member assigned specific tasks. Training includes firing tank cannons, anti-aircraft guns, turret machine guns, and using smoke mortars. Trainees are also prepared for combat scenarios, including engaging targets in day and night conditions.
Tank Lieutenant Servet Şahin, a trainee at the Tank School Command, expressed pride in serving the Turkish Armed Forces and the state. After completing training, graduates continue their duties in their respective tank units, where they apply their skills effectively in the field.
The modernization of tank units, including the M60T tank equipped with domestic and national technology products, enhances their capabilities. Features such as a 120-millimeter tank gun, camera systems, anti-aircraft guns, laser warning systems, and reactive armor plating improve the tank’s performance on the battlefield.
As Turkey advances with its “Altay” tank project, trainees at the Tank School Command also receive specialized training on this new generation tank. With continuous training and modernization efforts, tank units of the Turkish Armed Forces remain prepared for any mission, ensuring the country’s defense capabilities are strong and reliable.
