The TAI Hürkuş is a versatile Turkish turboprop designed for training and combat missions.

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Named after a pioneering Turkish aviator, the Hürkuş is a tandem two-seat aircraft built by Turkish Aerospace Industries. From its origins as a basic trainer to its evolution into a light attack platform, this turboprop demonstrates how indigenous engineering can reshape national air power and expand into international export markets.

The Hürkuş development program began in March 2006 following an agreement between the Turkish Undersecretariat for Defense Industries and Turkish Aerospace Industries. Designed for a 35-year service life, the aircraft is a low-wing, single-engine turboprop capable of day and night operations. It features advanced systems such as an onboard oxygen generation system, Martin-Baker ejection seats, and hands-on throttle and stick controls. The project has been a significant undertaking, consuming one million man-hours by June 2012, with a notable contribution from female engineers and project leads.

While the initial prototype was originally forecast to fly in 2009, the program faced delays, with the first flight eventually occurring on 29 August 2013. By 2016, the Hürkuş-A trainer received certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency. The platform has since evolved into several variants, including the Hürkuş-C, an armed version capable of carrying laser-guided rockets and anti-tank missiles. This variant is designed for close air support and can operate from unprepared runways, making it an attractive option for nations seeking cost-effective air power in low-intensity combat environments.

The latest iteration, the New Generation Hürkuş-B, also referred to as Hürkuş-2, represents a significant refinement of the original design. Through increased use of composite materials and structural thinning, the aircraft has achieved a weight reduction of 450 to 500 kilograms. This version incorporates fully indigenous systems, including cooling and communication hardware, and features aerodynamic improvements to the nose, winglets, and tail assembly. With deliveries to the Turkish Air Force and international orders from nations like Libya, Niger, and Chad, the Hürkuş continues to establish itself as a key asset in modern military training and tactical operations.

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