Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has taken a major step toward exporting its domestically developed supersonic jet trainer, HÜRJET, to Europe through a newly signed strategic partnership with Airbus.
The agreement, which outlines plans to deliver up to 30 HÜRJET aircraft to Spain, was formalized during the 17th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF) in Istanbul.
According to TAI, the cooperation will not only accelerate HÜRJET’s integration into European inventories but also strengthen Türkiye’s footprint in the regional defense aviation market.
“Today we mark another milestone in HÜRJET’s European journey — a platform brought to life through the engineering mastery of Turkish Aerospace,” said TAI CEO Mehmet Demiroğlu in a statement. “This agreement with Airbus is not just an export success; it is a recognition of the technological maturity of Türkiye’s aerospace industry. HÜRJET flying in Spanish skies will stand as a symbol of Türkiye’s global competitiveness.”
The deal comes after a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed earlier this year between TAI, Airbus, and the Spanish Ministry of Defense. The MoU paves the way for a formal contract expected by the end of 2025 and envisions the first deliveries beginning in 2028.
Under the proposed agreement, the aircraft could be assembled locally in Spain, with Spanish aerospace companies contributing to production. Spain sees the deal as part of a broader framework for industrial cooperation, aimed at enhancing defense ties and manufacturing collaboration between the two countries.
The HÜRJET, developed entirely with Turkish engineering resources, is a two-seat, next-generation supersonic trainer also designed for light attack missions. Its development began in July 2017 as a replacement for the aging T-38M and NF-5A/B aircraft in the Turkish Air Force. The first flight of the HÜRJET took place on April 25, 2023.
TAI says the aircraft has already completed over 210 test flights and successfully surpassed Mach 1, demonstrating the platform’s readiness for operational roles.
In a press release, the company said the cooperation with Airbus brings together the engineering capabilities of both firms and aims to streamline HÜRJET’s transition into export markets. The agreement is expected to speed up certification, adaptation, and delivery timelines.
TAI emphasized that the platform represents more than an advanced training capability. The company views HÜRJET as a statement of Türkiye’s determination to strengthen its role in future European defense programs.
As the HÜRJET prepares for its European debut, Turkish officials are hopeful the aircraft’s entry into Spain will open additional pathways for sales and joint development programs across NATO member states.
If finalized as planned, the Spanish deal would represent the first European order for the HÜRJET, reinforcing Türkiye’s position as a growing supplier of high-performance defense systems on the continent.
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