On Wednesday, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) released a video showcasing a landmark event in defense cooperation: two Hurjet aircraft flying in formation, piloted by General Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu, Commander of the Turkish Air Force, and General Francisco Braco Carbo, Commander of the Spanish Air Force.
This joint flight not only demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the Hurjet but also highlighted the robust partnership between the Turkish and Spanish air forces. As NATO allies, both nations underscored their commitment to shared security interests through this successful mission, which reflected the aircraft’s performance and the pilots’ exceptional skill and coordination.
The Hurjet: A Cutting-Edge Jet Trainer and Light Combat Aircraft
The Hurjet is a single-engine, tandem-seat, supersonic aircraft designed by TAI to serve as both an advanced jet trainer and a light combat platform. Development began in 2018, with the first prototype taking flight on April 25, 2023.
This milestone marked a significant advancement in Turkey’s aerospace capabilities, offering a versatile and modern solution for air forces worldwide. The Hurjet’s ability to train pilots for next-generation fighters while also performing light combat roles positions it as a valuable asset in today’s evolving defense landscape.
Deepening Defense Ties Between Turkey and Spain
The formation flight follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on December 20, 2024, between Turkey and Spain to collaborate on the Hurjet Trainer Aircraft project.
This agreement came after a successful demonstration flight for the Spanish Air Force, signaling Spain’s serious consideration of the Hurjet as a replacement for its aging F-5 fleet. Spain intends to acquire 24 Hurjets, with deliveries slated to begin in 2028.
This potential deal reflects the aircraft’s appeal as a cost-effective, high-performance option and reinforces the growing defense relationship between the two nations. Turkish officials and TAI have intensified efforts to secure this sale, viewing it as a strategic step in expanding the Hurjet’s international footprint.
A Competitive Player in the Global Market
The Hurjet enters a competitive field of advanced jet trainers, standing toe-to-toe with established platforms like the Boeing T-7, KAI T-50, and Leonardo M-346. Its combination of supersonic speed, modern avionics, and affordability makes it an attractive choice for air forces seeking to modernize their training fleets.
Spain’s interest further elevates the Hurjet’s profile, positioning it as a credible contender in the global defense market and a testament to Turkey’s growing influence in aerospace technology.
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.
Naval Ambitions: Hurjet’s Role on the TCG Anadolu
Turkey is also exploring new horizons with a naval variant of the Hurjet, designed to operate from the TCG Anadolu, the world’s first drone carrier. This variant will complement an array of unmanned systems, including Bayraktar TB3 drones and the Kizilelma unmanned combat aircraft.
By integrating manned and unmanned platforms, Turkey aims to enhance its maritime defense capabilities, setting a precedent for hybrid naval operations. This development highlights the Hurjet’s adaptability and Turkey’s forward-thinking approach to defense innovation.
A Milestone in Bilateral Cooperation
The joint Hurjet flight by Turkish and Spanish air force commanders is more than a technical achievement—it symbolizes the strengthening of bilateral defense ties. As the Hurjet gains traction among international partners, it reflects Turkey’s progress in aerospace engineering and its dedication to fostering alliances through shared security goals.
For Spain, the Hurjet offers a pathway to modernize its air force, while for Turkey, it represents an opportunity to solidify its role as a key player in global defense. This formation flight marks a promising step forward for both nations and the Hurjet’s future in modern air forces.
Hürjet targets North Africa and Europe market
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.
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.
