BAE Systems Partners with Turkish Aerospace to Propel TF-X Initiative Forward
BAE Systems and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) have embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration as they signed a Heads of Agreement on January 29, 2017. This partnership aims to initiate the development phase of Turkey’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, the TF-X, for the Turkish Air Force, heralding a promising era of cooperation throughout the duration of this ambitious project.
This significant announcement took place in Ankara, attended by Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim and UK Prime Minister Theresa May, with the partnership valued at over £100 Million. This investment stands as a testament to the strengthening ties between the two nations.
At the height of the TF-X program, hundreds of engineers from Turkey and the UK will join forces, driving innovation by pooling their skills, cutting-edge technology, and technical expertise vital for the successful execution of this advanced fighter jet project.
BAE Systems Chief Executive Ian King remarked on this landmark agreement, stating, “BAE Systems is a leader in designing, manufacturing, and supporting fighter aircraft. We are exceptionally positioned to lend our technical and engineering acumen, alongside our extensive experience in managing complex projects to this vital Turkish program.”
King further emphasized, “This announcement marks an exciting progression in the relationship between Turkey and the UK, with the collaboration between BAE Systems and TAI laying the groundwork for a deeper defense partnership, while reaffirming our ongoing efforts in the design and development of this crucial aircraft.”
As the Turkish military is actively engaged in various operational theaters, including airstrikes against Kurdish militant targets in northern Iraq and southeastern Turkey, as well as combating the Islamic State extremist group in northern Syria, the TF-X program represents a strategic enhancement of Turkey’s defense capabilities.
