Development of a naval variant of Türkiye's Hurjet supersonic advanced jet trainer has officially begun, Turkish media outlet TRT Haber reported on Friday.
The carrier-capable variant includes a purpose-built arrestor hook system, reinforced shock-absorbing landing gear designed for high-impact deck landings, and fully marinized components to protect against saltwater and humidity.
According to the report, the naval Hurjet will require substantially different engineering from the land-based version:
Hurjet's first export agreement has been confirmed with Spain. Deliveries of the first aircraft are planned to begin in 2028, with the jets to be used actively in Spanish Air Force training courses in 2029 and 2030. Total deliveries of 30 Hurjet aircraft will be completed between 2030 and 2035.
Hurjet's first prototype conducted its maiden flight on April 25, 2023, and has since completed more than 150 test flights, reaching an altitude exceeding 45,000 feet and breaking the sound barrier.
The second prototype flew for the first time on Nov. 12, 2024. Serial production is ongoing while delivery to the Turkish Air Force Command (TurAF) is planned for 2026.