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Türkiye's first domestically developed jet trainer aircraft, the Hurjet, successfully completed extreme cold-weather testing in Erzurum, passing a critical milestone on the path to serial production and full operational capability.
Two Hurjet prototypes underwent cold-weather testing under the coordination of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB). Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) developed the aircraft.
Ground testing was conducted in severe winter conditions, with temperatures reaching minus 21 °C (-5.8 °F). Following ground tests, flight testing confirmed that the aircraft's engines and avionics systems operated efficiently under severe weather conditions.
Erzurum's geographic location enabled simultaneous validation of high-altitude performance alongside cold weather testing.
The testing demonstrated that Hurjet can operate in the world's most challenging climates, not merely under ideal conditions. Systems functioned without freezing or performance degradation during both ground operations and aerial maneuvers.
"Both ground and high-altitude testing in Erzurum was successfully validated," according to the aircraft development program. The successful completion of these tests proved that Hurjet meets international standards and is ready for operational service.
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TAI has conducted approximately 400 sorties to date during testing and development activities.
Following Spain's export contract and anticipated additional orders, preparations for serial production have accelerated. TAI aims to produce three aircraft per month through its supplier network during serial production, considering demand and market potential for aircraft in Hurjet's class.
The single-engine, tandem-cockpit Hurjet is designed to play a critical role in modern fighter pilot training.
The aircraft can perform advanced combat readiness transition training, air patrol and aerobatic display roles.
The Hurjet was developed to replace the T-38 advanced jet trainer and F-5 aerobatic display aircraft currently in the Turkish Air Force (TurAF) inventory.
Turkish Aerospace leveraged its cost-effective knowledge and experience in training aircraft production and design to address market potential.
The first Hurjet made its maiden flight on April 25, 2023, and completed over 150 test flights. During initial prototype testing, Hurjet exceeded an altitude of 45,000 feet and broke the sound barrier.
The aircraft crossed the Mediterranean Sea for an overseas flight to participate in Egypt's International Aviation and Space Fair, performing a demonstration flight over the Giza Pyramids.
The second prototype completed its production phase and conducted its first flight on Nov. 12, 2024. During that 26-minute flight, the aircraft reached a speed of 200 knots and an altitude of 10,000 feet. Hurjet P2 completed a second flight on November 21, 2024.
Delivery of Hurjet to the Turkish Air Force Command is planned for 2026.
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