The new, improved version of Turkey’s primary training aircraft, named Hürkuş-II, has successfully completed its maiden flight. This marks the platform’s entry into a competitive market currently dominated by Swiss, American, and Brazilian aircraft. The trainer was developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) specifically for the Turkish Air Force.
According to TAI, the aircraft reached an altitude of 6,500 feet and a speed of 140 knots during its 20-minute flight. Reports indicate that TAI has secured a contract for 55 aircraft with the Presidency of Defense Industries. The first 15 Hürkuş-II units are expected to enter service with the 122nd Basic Flight Training Squadron in 2025. The remaining 40 units, to be delivered by 2027, will replace the Turkish Air Force’s current fleet of Hürkuş-B training aircraft.
The Hürkuş-II features a composite structure that is lighter than existing models. It is powered by a 1,600-horsepower PT6A-68T turboprop engine from Pratt & Whitney Canada, capable of 30 seconds of inverted flight, and is equipped with ejection seats. The aircraft also boasts a large wide-angle Heads-Up Display and a redesigned canopy. Additionally, it incorporates a domestically developed cooling system, a hydraulic pump, and an advanced communication suite, further enhancing its capabilities.
A video shows the turboprop Hürkuş-II, painted in its factory yellow livery, preparing for takeoff on the runway as a single pilot boards the aircraft. The plane conducts its flight with landing gear extended, as is typical during a maiden flight. The footage was captured from an unidentified chase aircraft with a similar color scheme. Earlier this year, in March, TAI Deputy General Manager Fahrettin Öztürk stated that “production is progressing rapidly” and that “the time is near when we will see it in the skies.”
“This version is lighter and more versatile. Its flight performance will be exceptional,” he added.
The Hürkuş-II is designed for use at all training levels, “from basic flight training to fighter transition,” and for “close air support in complex operations.” It is described as a “twin-seat, single-engine, turboprop trainer aircraft offering excellent capabilities as a next-generation advanced trainer and light attack aircraft.” TAI officials highlight its versatility, noting its ability to perform missions such as border patrol and surveillance, counter-narcotics operations, close air support, armed reconnaissance, advanced air traffic control, air interception, escort, and scanning missions.
To enhance safety, the aircraft is equipped with an On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS), a reinforced canopy for bird strike protection, and high-durability landing gear with advanced shock absorption capabilities.
These features make the Hürkuş-II an attractive option for numerous potential buyers in Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia, particularly those engaged in counterinsurgency efforts or facing regional border conflicts. Many of these nations already operate Turkish drones from TAI and Baykar, such as the Akinci, TB-2, and Anka-2, highlighting Turkey’s growing influence in the defense sector.
Source: theaviationist
