HÜRKUŞ-II, a lightened and modernised version of the HÜRKUŞ basic trainer aircraft, has successfully completed its first flight. The aircraft flew for 20 minutes at an altitude of 6,500 feet and a speed of 140 knots during its maiden test.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the HÜRKUŞ-II represents the next generation of basic training aircraft. It is scheduled to make its first flight at the end of 2024 and officially enter the Turkish Air Force inventory in 2025.
Speaking at TEKNOFEST Adana, TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu announced that the assembly of the HÜRKUŞ-II has been completed on schedule and confirmed that the first flight will take place in October or November 2024. The aircraft has successfully completed its first test flights and is now moving towards series production.
The HÜRKUŞ-II features a lighter design than its predecessor, the HÜRKUŞ-I. In the first production phase, 15 aircraft will be delivered to the Turkish Air Force, with a further 40 units to be delivered later. This will bring the total fleet to 55 aircraft.
In addition to its role as a trainer, the HÜRKUŞ-II has armed versions that have attracted international interest. Countries such as Azerbaijan are following the programme closely. Experts highlight the high export potential of the aircraft and predict a positive development in global sales.
