Turkish Aerospace concluded 2024 with yet another milestone. The first HÜRKUŞ New Generation Trainer Aircraft, developed with national capabilities and set to join the inventory of our Air Force, successfully completed its maiden flight.
Work on the new HÜRKUŞ, designed to meet the pilot training needs of the Turkish Air Force and advance the capabilities of our defense industry, began on May 3, 2021. Ground testing activities were conducted at a steady pace as part of the project. Following the successful completion of all tests, HÜRKUŞ took off from Akıncı Air Base and met the sky. During its 20-minute flight, the aircraft reached an altitude of 6,500 feet and a speed of 140 knots.
“AN UNFORGETTABLE MOMENT”
Regarding the flight, Defense Industries President Haluk Görgün described witnessing HÜRKUŞ’s first flight as an indescribable moment filled with pride and meaning. Görgün stated, “I sincerely congratulate all stakeholders involved in the project, especially Turkish Aerospace and our presidency, and honor the memory of our fallen heroes with gratitude.”
“THANK YOU, TURKISH AEROSPACE”
Following the terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace on October 23, the company’s employees accelerated the production of national platforms, continuing their work for the nation’s security with the motto, “We will work harder, we will produce more.” In this spirit, the HÜRKUŞ aircraft included a drawing made by the daughter of Zahide Güçlü Ekici, who was martyred in the attack. The drawing featured HÜRKUŞ alongside the phrase, “Nice to have you, Turkish Aerospace.”
THE MOST PERFORMANT AIRCRAFT IN ITS CLASS
Set to be delivered to the Air Force soon, the new HÜRKUŞ has been optimized with structural weight reductions and cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most aerobatic and high-performing aircraft in its class. Aerodynamic enhancements provide a tailored solution for pilot cadet training flights in the Turkish Air Force.
In line with the goal of increasing the localization rate in our defense industry, components such as the canopy, cooling system, hydraulic pump, radio, and IFF have been indigenized. This success has enabled the inclusion of domestic subcontractors in the project and strengthened the defense ecosystem.
15 HÜRKUŞ AIRCRAFT TO BE DELIVERED IN 2025
Flight tests are expected to be successfully completed, and the first 15 aircraft of the 55-aircraft contract signed with the Defense Industries Presidency will be delivered to the Turkish Air Force by 2025. The remaining 40 aircraft will be delivered by 2027.
Turkish Aerospace release
