Developed by Turkish Aerospace (TUSAŞ), the HÜRKUŞ-II basic trainer aircraft is expected to join the Turkish Air Force in 2025 with an initial batch of 15 planes.
Deliveries of the other 40 planes, says the company magazine “Gökvatan”, are planned to be finished by 2027.
This new variant incorporates significant upgrades over its predecessor, HÜRKUŞ-B, including structural weight reduction, improved agility, and a higher localisation rate through extensive indigenisation of subsystems.
Road to Operational Integration
These thorough upgrades will initially appear on the 15 planes scheduled for near-term delivery to the Turkish Air Force. HÜRKUŞ-II is intended to benefit Turkiye’s pilot training system by strengthening the country’s self-reliance in military aviation and modern systems, strong performance qualities, and lower logistical footprint.
Enhanced Performance and Local Content
By incorporating modern technology and knowledge gained during the Hürkuş-B development, Hürkuş-II distinguishes itself with a lighter and nimbler airframe.
The design enhancements contribute to reduced drag, optimised engine performance, and easier maintenance. New components such as the fairing, wingtip-integrated lights, dorsal fin, air intake, and exhaust geometry significantly boost aerodynamic efficiency.
Described as “the most agile aircraft in its class,” HÜRKUŞ-II offers superior roll rates, top speed, and G-performance compared to its rivals. Its upgraded Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and modern cockpit design improve pilot usability and situational awareness, while a wide-angle canopy delivers enhanced visibility.
Broader Indigenous Contribution
In line with Turkiye’s objective to reduce foreign dependency in the defence sector, several formerly imported components have now been domestically produced. These include the canopy, cooling system, hydraulic pump, radio, and IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) system. Additional items such as flap actuators, fire blankets, seals, and hoses—previously sourced abroad—have also been indigenised.
These efforts collectively increase the aircraft’s national content, allowing the platform to serve as both a domestic training solution and a competitive export candidate without the constraint of third-party export licenses.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
