Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has set its sights on expanding the market for its Hürjet trainer aircraft, targeting potential customers in North Africa and Europe. Initially designed to replace the Turkish Air Force’s aging T-38 trainer fleet, the Hürjet is scheduled for deliveries starting in 2026. TAI confirmed that they are in closer talks with potential export customers as the aircraft continues to achieve significant milestones.
Recently, the Hürjet successfully broke the sound barrier, marking an important achievement for Turkey’s first indigenous supersonic jet aircraft. “This is really encouraging for us – it’s not the goal but it’s the first step,” said Dr. Mehmet Demiroglu, TAI’s general manager, at the Saha Expo in Istanbul. This follows the Hürjet’s maiden flight in May 2023.
The Turkish Air Force has already placed an order for 17 Hürjet trainers, with deliveries expected by 2026. The programme is valued at US$205.3 million, and most of the airframes have already been produced. TAI highlights that the Hürjet features an advanced mission computer, a modern cockpit, and a human-machine interface designed to minimize conversion time to current and future Turkish fighter aircraft.
TAI also positions the Hürjet as an attractive option for air forces looking to modernize their fleets with cost-effective and high-performance Advanced Jet Trainers (AJTs). The manufacturer is actively pursuing export opportunities, with Spain and Egypt identified as notable prospects.
Hurkus-C, the armed variant of the base version of Hurkus, features locally developed ammunition including CIRIT, TEBER, HGK and LGK. It can also use inertial navigation system/GPS-guided bombs, conventional bombs, non-guided rockets, and machine guns.
The armed Hurkus also features armored body parts, a self-protection system, a data link, laser tacking, an electro-optical and infrared pod, an external fuel tank, and advanced avionics.
With a 1,500-kilogram payload that can be used through seven external hardpoints, the Hurkus-C can perform light-attack and armed reconnaissance missions.
Spain has shown strong interest in the Hürjet, particularly as it seeks replacements for its aging fleet of 19 F-5M lead-in trainer aircraft. Following an evaluation by the Spanish Air Force in mid-2024, Spain has signaled a positive outlook on the Hürjet’s capabilities.
In North Africa, Egypt has emerged as a likely candidate after an Egyptian F-16 pilot tested the Hürjet at the Egypt Air Show in September 2024. The aircraft received positive feedback and made a strong impression by performing a notable flight over the iconic pyramids, showcasing its operational versatility and appeal. Egypt is actively seeking a trainer platform to support its diverse fighter fleet, which includes F-16s, MiG-29s, and Rafales.
Additionally, there is talk of a strategic trade involving 24 Hürjets in exchange for six Spanish A400Ms. This echoes past exchanges, such as Turkey’s trade of 46 F-16s for 630 Cherokee Jeeps with Egypt. With Turkey-Egypt relations normalizing after mutual presidential visits since early 2024, further defence cooperation between the two countries could gain fresh momentum.
TAI’s Hürjet is poised to make a significant impact in both North African and European markets, bolstering Turkey’s presence in the global defence industry.
