The Spanish Ministry of Defense has selected the indigenous jet trainer aircraft HÜRJET to meet the new-generation training needs of its air force. The €2.6 billion project to be carried out in cooperation with Airbus and TUSAŞ has been recorded as one of the greatest achievements of the Turkish defense industry in the European and NATO markets.
SSB President Görgün: “A Historic Export Success”
Following the agreement, President of the Defense Industries (SSB) Haluk Görgün emphasized in his statement that Türkiye has reached the position of a trusted and agenda-setting exporter in the defense industry. Görgün stated: “HÜRJET has officially been selected by the Spanish Air and Space Force with a 30-aircraft export package, marking a historic success. This €2.6 billion program has made our country a global player in the field of air platforms.”
Stating that the entry of an indigenous jet aircraft into the inventory of a NATO member is proof of design, certification, and sustainability capabilities, Görgün announced that the process will begin in 2028.
F-5 Fleet to be Renewed Through Airbus and TUSAŞ Cooperation
In the Integrated Training System (ITS-C) project, which will renew Spain’s existing F-5 aircraft fleet, Airbus will serve as the national coordinator, while TUSAŞ will act as the main platform provider. The project covers not only aircraft sales, but also ground-based simulation systems, maintenance and sustainment infrastructure, and long-term operational support.
Within the scope of the agreement:
- 30 HÜRJET aircraft will be produced by TUSAŞ and delivered to Spain.
- Aircraft will be modified according to local requirements at an Aircraft Conversion Center to be established in Spain.
- The training center at Talavera la Real Air Base will be fully modernized.
Two-Phase Strategic Timeline
The HÜRJET program will be executed in two main phases. In the first phase, the aircraft are planned to be delivered to Spain between 2028 and 2029; in the second phase, Spanish defense industry components are planned to be integrated into the aircraft between 2031 and 2035.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, stated that this program will secure Spanish sovereignty and national industrial participation. The Ground-Based Training System (GBTS) to be developed within the scope of the project will complete the digital transformation in pilot training with virtual reality and advanced mission simulators.
Source: C4Defence / Airbus
