Canik Upgraded BMP-1 Vehicle at MSPO 2026
The manufacturer debuted a remote weapon station upgrade for the legacy infantry fighting vehicle in September 2026.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Robotics
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Canik showcased a modernized BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicle equipped with a new remote weapon station during the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce, Poland. This proof-of-concept upgrade replaces the original turret with a system designed to modernize legacy hardware.
Why it matters
This modernization concept offers a cost-effective path to enhance the capabilities of older armored vehicles currently in storage across Eastern Europe. By utilizing a remote system, operators can remain under armor while controlling the weapon.
The system integrates an AEI Systems 30x113 mm Venom LR cannon with a 150-round ammunition capacity. The Trakon Core 30 remote weapon station weighs 400 kg unloaded and 650 kg with a full ammunition load.
The players
Canik
Canik is a Turkish firearm and defense manufacturing company that operates within the Samsun Yurt Savunma Group.
Unirobotics
Unirobotics is a subsidiary of the Samsun Yurt Savunma Group specializing in the development of advanced remote weapon stations.
AEI Systems
AEI Systems is an engineering company within the Samsun Yurt Savunma Group that focuses on high-caliber weapon systems.
The details
The upgrade process involves removing the original turret and armament entirely. In its place, the Trakon Core 30 is installed, allowing the operator to manage the weapon system via an internal display.
Timeline
September 2026: Canik demonstrated the upgraded BMP-1 at the MSPO 2026 exhibition.
The Tech Race
This modification reflects a broader industry trend of extending the service life of Cold War-era hardware through digital integration and modular weapon upgrades. By introducing remote systems to the BMP-1 platform, manufacturers are attempting to replace aging legacy turrets with modern, high-precision alternatives.
For military operators, this technology enables lethal targeting from the safety of the vehicle's interior rather than from an exposed turret position. It also offers a potential workflow improvement by centralizing weapons management through a digital display interface.
The takeaway
Modernizing legacy combat platforms is an increasingly viable alternative to the high costs associated with procuring new armored vehicles. This approach allows defense forces to keep existing stockpiles operational while integrating modern fire-control and safety standards.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in defense automation on our Robotics page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Janes.
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