PARS ALPHA is the fifth generation of the PARS family of armoured vehicles. Unlike the predecessors, PARS ALPHA’s engine is placed on the front.
PARS ALPHA offers improvements in mobility compared to PARS IV 8x8 of the previous generation. The vehicle can overcome 70 per cent gradients, side slopes of 40 per cent, 2.4-meter trenches, and 0.8-meter vertical obstacles. The previous models could overcome gradients of 60 per cent and smaller trenches. The range is increased to 800 km from PARS IV 8x8’s 600 km, and the maximum road speed is increased to 115 km/h from 100 km/h.
For firepower, the new TEBER-II remote-controlled turret has been developed according to changes in the threat environment. Compared to the previous TEBER series, the new turret has new features.
The turret’s main armament layout consists of up to 40 mm calibre autocannons, a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun or chain gun, and two ATGMs. Additionally, there are provisions for active protection systems, gunshot detection systems, and commanders’ optics. There is also an option for overhead RCWS with a commander’s sight to engage infantry and UAVs approaching from high angles.
As observed in the Russo-Ukrainian War many times, munition-carrying drones have been among the main issues of today’s armoured vehicles. Adapting RCWS and active protection systems are among the first efforts to combat this minor but also a big issue.
The vehicle can be fitted with up to 120 mm cannons/mortars and various guided missiles according to user requirements aside from the new TEBER-II RCT. The TEBER-II 30/40 RCT integrates modern anti-armour systems such as Semiautomatic command to line of sight (SACLOS) and Automatic command to line of sight (ACLOS) guided missile types. This capability enables diversified threat engagements with an effective range beyond 4 km.
The turret and RCWS are designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously from all directions. TEBER-II 30/40 RCT offers target tracking and two-axis stabilisation that allows firing on the move. Besides TEBER-II 30/40 RCT, the vehicle can be fitted with various types of manned or remote control turrets up to 120mm direct/indirect guns or weapon systems, 120mm mortars, air defence systems and anti-armour systems.
PARS ALPHA 8x8 New also features a revised internal layout. With its compact powerpack design, the commander and driver can sit side-by-side. This new layout approach enables 180°+ real-time optical situational awareness for both occupants. The overall internal volume is increased despite the reduction in overall silhouette.
The vehicle also does not require field maintenance for 5000 km of cross-country and on-road driving.
Out of all generations of the PARS family, it can be said that PARS ALPHA represents the most significant shift in terms of design philosophy following the recent change in threat perception and doctrines for armoured fighting vehicles.
