‘TAI capable of selling to Europe, US’: GM Demiroglu

Türkiye’s homegrown Gokbey helicopter has completed its first flight in the U.K., marking a significant milestone in the nation’s aerospace ambitions.

 Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TAI) General Manager Mehmet Demiroglu expressed pride in the achievement, stating, “We are capable of selling products to Europe and the U.S. Our local content reaches 70%-80%. On some platforms, it has even reached 100%. We can achieve anything we set our minds to.

Demiroglu emphasized the importance of the Gokbey aircraft’s successful flight during a CNN Turk interview.

“We’ve demonstrated that if we work together in Türkiye, we can achieve anything. We’ve seen Hurjet fly, followed by Gokbey with a domestic engine. Next, ATAK-2 flew, and by the end of the year, Anka-3 will take to the skies, with KAAN making its first flight on Feb. 21. There is significant interest from developed countries,” he said. 

Regarding production plans, Demiroglu revealed, “If we are not aiming to produce 500 helicopters, it means we are doing something wrong. The value of these helicopters will approach $10 billion. I can confidently say that we will sell no less than 500 helicopters to various countries and regions.” 

Hurjet deliveries scheduled for 2026 

Demiroglu also discussed the Hurjet, a light attack aircraft. “We’re working on it and expect to start deliveries in 2026. This will fill a significant gap, offering a more advantageous price-performance ratio. It will be a prestigious addition if the Turkish military uses it.”

It has the capability to compete in both Europe and the U.S. market.

Demiroglu mentioned ongoing discussions with a U.S. firm, stating, “We discussed supplying Aksungur to meet specific needs. We are capable of selling products to Europe and the US.”

Aksungur is a domestically produced medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned combat aerial vehicle. 

Collaborations with Boeing and Airbus

TAI is collaborating with Boeing and Airbus, a development that will significantly boost their business.

“We are increasing our capacity and need to produce and deliver our products,” said Demiroglu.

ATAK Helicopter: Leading in its class

Demiroglu praised the T129 Tactical Reconnaissance and Attack Helicopter (ATAK) stating, “It is the best in its class, and users are satisfied. We are producing 24 more units. We are pleased with the ATAK, and almost all of its ammunition comes from Roketsanor MKE. Our local content is nearing 70%-80%, and on some platforms, it has reached 100%. We are capable of achieving everything we aim for.”

Regarding the Anka-3, Demiroglu stated, “The Anka-3 is currently flying with two prototypes.” We are conducting development and envelope expansion tests, improving its altitude, speed, and payload capacity. TAI’s three main units are contributing equally to our revenue.”

KAAN to be delivered by 2028

Looking ahead, Demiroglu focused on Türkiye’s indigenous fighter jet, KAAN. “KAAN is not just an aircraft project; it is an ecosystem project. We plan to deliver it in 2028, though it may extend to 2029 but not beyond 2039. After 14 years of initial component production and 22 months of testing, KAAN will surpass F-22 in certain aspects with advanced systems. The enthusiasm for KAAN is remarkable and serves as a significant motivation for us.”

Tweet: Demiroglu showcases Türkiye’s new helicopter’s UK debut, details plans for producing 500 units, Hurjet deliveries by 2026, and the Kaan fighter jet’s expected arrival by 2028