Ankara, November 27 - Türkiye's Hurjet advanced jet trainer is poised to revolutionize military aviation with its imminent entry into mass production, marking a pivotal milestone in the nation's burgeoning defense industry. Developed indigenously by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), this supersonic light combat aircraft embodies cutting-edge engineering designed to train future fighter pilots while doubling as a versatile light attack platform. As global demand surges for cost-effective, high-performance jet trainers, Hurjet's seamless transition to serial manufacturing underscores Türkiye's strategic push toward aerospace self-sufficiency and export dominance. With prototypes already logging over 260 flight hours across 340 sorties, the aircraft has proven its mettle, paving the way for a production line capable of churning out two jets per month.
At the heart of Hurjet's appeal lies its advanced specifications tailored for modern aerial demands. Measuring 13.6 meters in length with a 9.5-meter wingspan and 4.1-meter height, the tandem-seat jet boasts a top speed of Mach 1.4 and an operational ceiling of 45,000 feet. Powered by a single General Electric F404 engine, it features seven hardpoints for payloads totaling three tons, enabling configurations for unarmed training, armed patrols, or aerobatic displays. Integrated avionics, including a state-of-the-art glass cockpit and fly-by-wire controls, ensure pilots transition effortlessly to fifth-generation fighters. This blend of supersonic agility and modular adaptability positions Hurjet as an ideal successor to aging fleets like the Northrop T-38 Talon in the Turkish Air Force, enhancing training efficacy while minimizing lifecycle costs.
The journey to mass production has been a testament to Türkiye's innovative spirit, initiated in 2017 as a TAI-funded venture and greenlit for full-scale development shortly thereafter. The first prototype soared on April 25, 2023, followed by rigorous testing that validated its structural integrity and performance envelope. Recent demonstrations at events like IDEF 2025 and TEKNOFEST showcased formation flights and integrations with the Turkish Stars aerobatic team, captivating international audiences. Now, with assembly of initial production units underway, deliveries to the Turkish Air Force are slated for 2026, starting with the elite aerobatic squadron. This domestic rollout not only bolsters national security but also fuels economic growth through job creation and technology transfer in Ankara's aerospace hubs.
Looking ahead, Hurjet's mass production heralds a new era of export prowess for Türkiye's defense sector. A landmark €3.12 billion deal with Spain, approved in October 2025, commits to 45 aircraft to replace the obsolescent F-5 fleet, with deliveries commencing in 2028 and local adaptations via Airbus Defense and Space España. This NATO-aligned partnership, formalized after the May 2025 agreements, opens doors to broader markets, including potential U.S. Navy tenders for T-45 Goshawk replacements. As rival nations eye similar upgrades, Hurjet stands ready to capture a slice of the global advanced jet trainer market, affirming Türkiye's ascent as a powerhouse in supersonic aviation innovation.