Turkey’s Homegrown 5th Gen Aerial Predator Takes to the Skies for Its Maiden Voyage
Türkiye’s innovative domestically produced jet-powered training and light assault aircraft, Hürjet, successfully completed its inaugural flight on Sunday.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the Hürjet initiated its engine operations in February.
Featuring a single-engine, tandem cockpit, and state-of-the-art avionics system, the Hürjet is expected to play a vital role in the Air Forces Command’s operational capabilities, leveraging its outstanding performance characteristics.
This initiative aims to design, manufacture, and finalize the qualification and certification processes for the next-generation jet trainer by the end of 2025.
The Hürjet project primarily seeks to replace the Turkish Air Force’s T-38 trainer aircraft fleet, which consists of 70 units, in order to meet the needs of potential international customers.
TAI plans to produce two of these aircraft per month following 2025, as stated by the company’s management.
The Hürjet program was officially unveiled by TAI in 2017.
Set to advance into a fifth-generation training aircraft, Hürjet will be equipped with a sophisticated mission computer within its contemporary cockpit.
The aircraft will integrate advanced radar and precision strike systems, along with comprehensive air and ground communication capabilities to address threats and challenges.
Hürjet measures 13.4 meters (43 feet) in length, with a wingspan of 11 meters, ensuring environmental sustainability during combat operations.
The advanced jet’s maximum altitude is specified at 45,000 feet (14 kilometers), accompanied by a payload capacity of 3,000 kilograms (6,600 pounds) and a maximum speed of Mach 1.2.
