Türkiye’s Hurkus-2 training aircraft enters serial production with 2025 delivery target
TAI, one of Türkiye's leading companies in the defence industry, performed a flight from HURKUS-2 (pictured), which was produced by Turkish engineers. (AA Photo)
Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has officially started serial production of the Hurkus-2 training and special mission aircraft, with plans to deliver the first batch to the Turkish Air Force in 2025, TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroglu announced.
Hurkus-2 unveiled at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi
TAI showcased the Hurkus aircraft at the IDEX 2025 International Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi, highlighting its advanced training capabilities.
Speaking to SavunmaSanayiST, Demiroglu revealed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has shown interest in the Hurkus, considering it a viable solution to meet their training aircraft needs.
“Both the UAE and surrounding countries have a gap in their training aircraft fleets. While the UAE is working on its own platform, the B-250, it is still in early development stages. We are discussing potential collaborations on Hurkus training aircraft and future light attack aircraft configurations,” he said.
Hurkus-2 enters serial production
Demiroglu confirmed that Hurkus-2 completed its maiden flight in late 2024 and is currently undergoing testing.
“Hurkus-2 successfully completed its first flight last year. The testing phase is ongoing, and we have already started serial production. Our goal is to deliver 10 aircraft to the Turkish Air Force within this year,” he stated.
TAI is also making progress with the Hurjet project, with two prototypes surpassing the speed of sound in test flights. Demiroglu noted that the company has initiated production for 15 units of Hurkus for the Turkish Air Force, while discussions with international partners continue.
Key features of Hurkus-2
The Hurkus-2 has been enhanced with several upgrades over previous versions, including a locally developed canopy, cooling system, hydraulic pump, radio, and identification friend or foe (IFF) system.
The aircraft is designed to perform a variety of missions such as:
- Border patrol and surveillance
- Counter-narcotics operations
- Close air support
- Armed reconnaissance
- Air interdiction
- Forward air control
- Escort and screening
During its maiden flight in December 2024, the aircraft achieved an altitude of 6,500 feet and a speed of 140 knots, staying airborne for 20 minutes.
Production progress and future plans
By Dec. 30, 2024, TAI confirmed via its official social media channels that the Hurkus-2 flight tests were proceeding successfully.
Presidency of Defence Industries (SSB) head Haluk Gorgun also praised the program’s progress, stating: “Witnessing the first flight of the Hurkus-2 that will be delivered to our air force was a moment of immense pride and significance. The inclusion of a symbolic artwork by the daughter of our martyred TAI engineer on this aircraft adds a deeply emotional element to this success. We congratulate all stakeholders involved in this achievement.”
Hurkus-2 is expected to enter service in 2025, with continued advancements in production and testing.
According to TAI Deputy General Manager Fahrettin Ozturk, the new version is lighter and more versatile, optimizing flight performance.
“It is now time for the new Hurkus-2. This version is lighter, more functional, and its flight performance will be significantly improved. Production is progressing rapidly, and we will see it in the skies very soon,” Ozturk noted.
