The first HÜRJET jet trainer built in delivery configuration for the Turkish Air Force Command completed its maiden flight on Saturday, marking the program’s transition from prototype testing toward operational service on the 104th anniversary of Victory Day.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) under the coordination of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB), the aircraft cleared ground and taxi tests following final assembly before it was cleared to fly. It remained airborne for 18 minutes, accompanied by the first HÜRJET prototype, and completed the flight safely.
The milestone advances Turkey’s effort to field a domestically produced advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft, reducing reliance on foreign platforms for pilot training and light attack roles.
Officials cite Victory Day symbolism
Haluk Görgün, president of the Presidency of Defense Industries, confirmed the flight in a social media post shortly afterward. “We brought our HÜRJET together with our Sky Homeland on the 104th anniversary of the Great Victory,” he said. “The first HÜRJET, which will be delivered to the Air Force Command, successfully completed its maiden flight following ground and taxi tests.”
Görgün thanked the Air Force Command, the TUSAŞ team, and the engineers, technicians and other stakeholders involved in the program.
Program timeline
Launched in 2017, the HÜRJET program conducted its first prototype flight on April 25, 2023. In subsequent testing with two prototypes, the aircraft reached supersonic speeds.
Test and validation activities have continued in parallel with production and assembly of aircraft in the delivery configuration. According to a written statement from the Presidency, six HÜRJETs will be produced in the program’s first phase.
Path to operational service
Saturday’s flight of the first delivery-configuration aircraft opens a new phase in the program, shifting the emphasis from prototype evaluation to flight operations of aircraft built to production standard. Production, flight testing and validation activities are continuing across the program.
