Slovak Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák has confirmed that Bratislava is narrowing its future tank selection to two candidates: BAE Systems Hägglunds’ CV90120 and an unnamed Turkish vehicle, most likely Otokar’s Tulpar according to reporting from TurDef.
The move signals a deliberate shift away from heavy main battle tanks such as the Leopard 2A8 or K2PL Black Panther, favoring more agile and cost-effective platforms. Speaking to reporters in Bratislava, Kaliňák noted that both contenders remain in development but could be 40–50 percent cheaper to acquire and sustain than legacy MBTs. He also underlined the opportunity for partial production in Slovakia, positioning the procurement as both a capability upgrade and a way to involve local industry.
Tulpar is a modular tracked chassis originally designed as an infantry fighting vehicle and adapted to carry a 120 mm smoothbore gun, offering a highly flexible light tank solution. Its modularity and survivability have made it a recurring candidate in international programs seeking mobile direct-fire support.
The CV90120, on the other hand, leverages the proven CV90 family fielded by multiple NATO nations, combining a high-pressure 120 mm gun with a lighter tracked platform. It aims to deliver MBT-like firepower at reduced weight, improving mobility in complex terrain and easing strategic deployment. Although not yet a serial-production model, it has undergone multiple live-fire trials in Europe, which could strengthen its case.
According to Kaliňák, neither vehicle would be fielded for another three to four years, reflecting their developmental status and the lead times for integrating Slovak industry into production. No budget ceiling or contract timeline has been published, but the focus on affordability and domestic content suggests the final deal will be structured to align with Slovakia’s longer-term industrial and defense goals.
The choice carries diplomatic implications as well. A CV90120 buy would deepen ties with Sweden and the UK through BAE’s established NATO supply chain, while Tulpar would represent a milestone for Türkiye’s defense exports into Central Europe. Both candidates promise a similar package—120 mm direct firepower on a mobile, affordable platform—yet offer different industrial partnerships and sustainment paths for Slovakia’s future armored forces.
