As part of the HÜRJET Project initiated by the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) to meet the needs of the Turkish Air Force, a milestone was achieved.
Türkiye's first human-jet engine aircraft, the HÜRJET Jet Training Aircraft, conducted a formation flight with the Turkish Stars aerobatics team, affiliated with the Turkish Air Force Command, on September 3, 2023. In the near future, the "Turkish Stars" aerobatics team will fly with HÜRJET instead of the NF-5 aircraft they have been using.
Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, President of the SSB, shared a video on his social media accounts and stated, "HÜRJET, our national star in the sky, is taking its place among the Turkish Stars. HÜRJET, which is eagerly awaited for light attack, training, reconnaissance, and aerobatic display missions, will always have an independent and open path in the skies."
HÜRJET, which has conducted 17 flights to date, totaling 9 hours and 8 minutes of flight time, successfully completed flight control system, air data system, and aircraft system tests. During its final flight, HÜRJET was accompanied by the Turkish Stars aerobatics team affiliated with the Turkish Air Force Command.
In this flight, HÜRJET remained airborne for 37 minutes, reached an altitude of 15,403 feet, and a speed of 351 knots. After a successful landing, HÜRJET performed a "Fil Yürüyüşü" (Elephant Walk) with the Turkish Stars.
The HÜRJET Jet Training Aircraft Project began in August 2017. The first component produced was transported to the final assembly line in a ceremony held on June 10, 2022. One of the most significant milestones of the project, the engine startup, was carried out on January 30, 2023. HÜRJET conducted its maiden flight on April 25, marking its first encounter with the sky.
Within the framework of the contract signed between the Presidency of Defense Industries and Turkish Aerospace Industries on December 27, 2022, an agreement was reached for the first stage of 4 aircraft, with the option for an additional 12 aircraft if deemed necessary.
The second prototype's first flight is planned for June 2024. HÜRJET has various variants, including the Jet Training Aircraft, Akrotim Display Aircraft, Combat Ready Aircraft, Red Aircraft, and Aircraft Carrier Takeoff and Landing versions.
