Both companies agreed to explore potential areas of collaboration in implementing Turkish Hürjet aircraft. The Hürjet has been identified as the preferred option by Spanish authorities.
In December last year, a memorandum was signed between the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries and the Spanish Ministry of Defence. The agreement outlined a joint development of aviation training systems.
This memorandum was widely perceived as a declaration of intent to purchase TAI Hürjet aircraft once they enter mass production. However, the future acquisition is contingent upon introducing modifications to meet specific Spanish requirements and localising a significant portion of production within Spain.
The current industrial cooperation agreement marks a first step towards fulfilling these conditions. Airbus, being the largest aircraft manufacturer in Spain, employing over 14,000 people in eight locations, was deemed a natural partner for TAI. The cooperation seeks to leverage Airbus’ experience in the design, production, and maintenance of military aircraft.
The partnership is expected to bolster the Spanish defence industry, strengthen bilateral relations between Spain and Turkey, and address the growing market demand for modern training aircraft. Notably, Airbus does not currently offer its own advanced trainer aircraft, despite past efforts with the Mako and AFTJ projects.
The Hürjet is a supersonic advanced training aircraft designed by TAI to replace the T-38 and F-5 aircraft in the Turkish Air Force. The Hürjet’s maiden flight took place on 25 April 2023, followed by the second prototype’s flight on 12 November 2024, representing a production-standard configuration.
Serial production in Turkey is underway, with initial deliveries to the Turkish Air Force scheduled for 2026. Ankara has ordered 16 units, with total requirements estimated at around 100 aircraft in various configurations, including training, aerobatic, and training-combat versions.
