Defense & Military
Turkish Aerospace and Airbus Expand HÜRJET Export to Spain
TUSAŞ and Airbus partner to export the HÜRJET jet trainer to Spain, enhancing European defense with advanced aerospace collaboration.
Strategic Cooperation Between Turkish Aerospace and Airbus Expands Further: Focus on HÜRJET Export to Spain
The defense landscape in Europe is undergoing a transformation, marked by a strategic collaboration between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) and Airbus. The recent agreement to export Türkiye’s HÜRJET advanced jet trainer to Spain highlights not only the growing capabilities of Türkiye’s aerospace sector but also a shift in European defense procurement strategies. This development comes at a time when NATO allies are seeking cost-effective, technologically advanced solutions to modernize their air forces.
The partnership, formalized during the IDEF 2025 defense fair in Istanbul, is a milestone for both parties. For TUSAŞ, it marks a significant export achievement and validates years of research and development in indigenous defense technologies. For Airbus, it represents a diversification of its portfolio and a deeper integration into the European defense training systems market.
In this article, we explore the historical context of the TUSAŞ-Airbus partnership, the technical attributes of the HÜRJET, the structure of the new agreement, and the broader strategic implications for the defense industry in Europe and beyond.
Historical Context of TUSAŞ-Airbus Collaboration
Collaboration between TUSAŞ and Airbus dates back several years, rooted in both civilian and military aerospace initiatives. TUSAŞ has long been a supplier for Airbus commercial aircraft programs, contributing structural components such as rudder parts for the A320 and assemblies for the A350F freighter. These contributions have established TUSAŞ as a reliable partner within the European aerospace supply chain.
Beyond manufacturing, the partnership has extended into educational and training domains. A notable example is the Aviation Vocational School in Kahramanmaraş, co-developed by Airbus and TUSAŞ. This initiative aims to cultivate a skilled workforce tailored to the evolving needs of the aerospace industry, thereby reinforcing long-term collaboration.
In May 2025, the relationship took a more strategic turn with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) during the FEINDEF defense exhibition in Madrid. This agreement involved Airbus, TUSAŞ, and a consortium of 15 Spanish defense companies under the “Team Spain” initiative. The MoU laid the groundwork for integrating the HÜRJET into Spain’s defense training infrastructure and set the stage for the formal export agreement signed two months later.
Educational and Industrial Synergies
The collaboration has also emphasized mutual development through education and industrial training. Programs like the aviation school in Türkiye aim to standardize aerospace education and align skill sets across both countries. This alignment is critical for seamless integration during joint production and maintenance phases of platforms like the HÜRJET.
Such initiatives not only ensure a pipeline of skilled labor but also foster cultural and technical exchange, which is essential for long-term industrial cooperation. Airbus and TUSAŞ have both expressed commitment to expanding these programs as the HÜRJET project progresses.
This educational collaboration complements the technical partnership, creating a holistic ecosystem that supports both current and future projects between the two companies.
“This agreement will further deepen defense industry cooperation between our nations and open new pathways for Turkish engineering in Europe’s future aviation projects.”, Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu, CEO of TUSAŞ
The HÜRJET Program and Spain’s Jet Trainer Requirement
The HÜRJET is Türkiye’s first indigenously developed supersonic jet trainer, designed to replace aging trainer fleets and prepare pilots for fifth-generation fighter platforms. It features a single-engine, twin-seat configuration and is capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 1.4. The aircraft includes advanced avionics, a human-machine interface, and an embedded training system that integrates seamlessly with ground-based simulators.
Spain’s current trainer fleet, based on the Northrop F-5M, has been in service since the early 1970s. The need for a modern replacement has become increasingly urgent due to maintenance challenges and technological obsolescence. The HÜRJET, with its modern architecture and training capabilities, emerged as a suitable candidate under Spain’s Integrated Training System (ITS-C) program.
As of mid-2025, the HÜRJET had completed over 210 test flights, including supersonic trials. These milestones have demonstrated its readiness for operational deployment and bolstered its credibility in international markets.
Technical Capabilities and Training Architecture
One of the HÜRJET’s key strengths lies in its integrated training ecosystem. The aircraft is part of the Training 360 System, which includes simulators, mission planning tools, and debriefing systems. This reduces the need for live flight hours and enhances pilot readiness through high-fidelity simulations.
Its avionics suite supports mission-specific configurations, allowing it to serve not only as a trainer but also in light combat roles. This dual-use capability increases its value proposition for air forces seeking versatile platforms.
Furthermore, the aircraft’s design prioritizes cost efficiency. Its single-engine layout results in lower fuel consumption and maintenance costs compared to twin-engine alternatives, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious defense ministries.
The 2025 Agreement: Structure and Implementation
Signed during the IDEF 2025 defense exhibition in Istanbul, the agreement between TUSAŞ and Airbus outlines a phased approach to delivering up to 30 HÜRJET aircraft to Spain. The final contract is expected to be signed by the end of 2025, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2028.
The deal includes a clear division of responsibilities: TUSAŞ will manufacture the base aircraft, while Airbus will oversee the integration of Spanish-specific systems and ensure compliance with European certification standards. Spanish defense companies are also expected to participate in subsystem production, fulfilling national industrial participation requirements.
The agreement is structured in two phases. The first involves the delivery of 15–20 aircraft in their base configuration to meet Spain’s immediate needs. The second phase will focus on localized production and integration of Spanish-manufactured avionics and control systems.
Industrial Participation and Technology Transfer
One of the core components of the agreement is the inclusion of Spanish industry in the production process. This not only satisfies political and economic requirements but also lays the groundwork for future co-development projects.
Airbus will act as the prime integrator, ensuring that Spanish-specific modifications do not disrupt the overall development timeline. This requires careful program management, particularly as TUSAŞ is also engaged in other major projects like the KAAN fifth-generation fighter.
The agreement also includes provisions for joint training programs and maintenance support, further solidifying the long-term nature of the partnership.
“We must be careful not to overburden the core development team during this process.”, Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power, Airbus
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The expanded cooperation between TUSAŞ and Airbus marks a significant milestone in both companies’ strategic trajectories. For Türkiye, it validates its aerospace capabilities on the European stage. For Airbus and Spain, it offers a cost-effective, modern solution to an urgent operational requirement while fostering industrial growth.
Looking forward, the success of the HÜRJET program could serve as a template for future collaborations, including potential exports to other NATO members. The partnership also opens doors for joint R&D in next-generation platforms, including unmanned systems and space technologies. As defense needs evolve, such strategic alliances will become increasingly vital in maintaining technological edge and operational readiness.
FAQ
What is the HÜRJET?
The HÜRJET is a supersonic advanced jet trainer developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, designed to train pilots for fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
Why did Spain choose the HÜRJET?
Spain selected the HÜRJET to replace its aging F-5M trainers due to its modern capabilities, cost efficiency, and the industrial partnership offered through Airbus.
When will the HÜRJET be delivered to Spain?
The first deliveries are expected in 2028, following a final contract signing anticipated by the end of 2025.
Sources
Photo Credit: TUSAS
Defense & Military
NSPA Issues RFP for NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Program
NSPA formally launches the NGRC Concept Design RFP, with four manufacturers competing for a six-nation helicopter replacement program.
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has formally issued a Request for Proposal for the Concept Design phase of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability program, advancing a six-nation effort to replace aging medium multi-role Helicopters fleets.
Announced in a press release on August 10, 2026, the procurement targets a service entry between 2035 and 2040. The NSPA is managing the process on behalf of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Four pre-qualified Manufacturers will compete in this phase: Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo Helicopters, The Boeing Company, and Sikorsky.
Advancing the concept design phase
The Request for Proposal (RFP) officially opened on July 31, 2026, and requires the four bidders to submit their concept design proposals by August 31, 2027, at 12:00 Paris Time. Under the procurement guidelines, each manufacturer can propose a maximum of two concept design solutions.
Maxime Martinez, Principal Procurement Officer for the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Programme at NSPA, confirmed the launch of the new phase.
I am pleased to announce that the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has launched the next phase of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Programme: a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified bidders linked to the competition for the Concept Design phase of NGRC.
The NSPA is utilizing a procurement mechanism called Acquisition by Qualified Options. This framework allows the participating nations to evaluate digital trials within an in-house modeling and simulation environment before committing to physical prototypes. The agency plans to complete the bid evaluation process by the end of 2027, at which point it will deliver an evaluation summary report to the participating nations.
Industry positioning and proposals
The four pre-qualified bidders, selected following a Pre-Qualification Assessment that closed in October 2025, have already begun positioning their offerings for the multi-national replacement program.
In February 2026, Airbus Helicopters revealed two distinct concepts for the NGRC study. The European manufacturer is developing both a high-performance conventional helicopter and a high-speed compound rotorcraft that leverages technology from its Racer demonstrator program. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, announced in July 2026 that it would establish helicopter production facilities in Europe if the partner nations select its proposal.
The NSPA is encouraging broader industry participation through the primary bidders rather than direct submissions. Martinez stated that potential suppliers, technology providers, and industrial partners should engage directly with Airbus Helicopters, The Boeing Company, Leonardo Helicopters, or Sikorsky to contribute to the program.
AirPro News analysis
We view the NSPA decision to utilize the Acquisition by Qualified Options mechanism as a critical step in mitigating the technical and financial risks historically associated with clean-sheet rotorcraft development. By mandating digital trials in a simulated environment before advancing to physical prototypes, the participating nations can rigorously evaluate the aerodynamic and operational viability of complex designs, such as the compound concept proposed by Airbus Helicopters.
Sikorsky’s preemptive commitment to European production highlights the intense political and economic stakes of the NGRC program. With five European nations and Canada funding the development, North American bidders like Sikorsky and The Boeing Company will likely need to guarantee substantial industrial offsets and local manufacturing to remain competitive against indigenous European prime contractors like Airbus and Leonardo. The requirement for up to two concepts per bidder also provides the NSPA with a broad spectrum of conventional and advanced high-speed rotorcraft options to evaluate against the harmonized operational baseline.
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
HAL and Safran Sign Aravalli Engine Co-Development Contract
HAL and Safran finalize the Aravalli engine contract via SAFHAL JV to power India’s IMRH and DBMRH helicopters by 2032-2033.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have finalized a contract to co-develop the new-generation Aravalli engine, marking a definitive shift in Indian aerospace manufacturing from licensed production to indigenous propulsion design.
The agreement, signed on August 26, 2026, in Bengaluru, India, formalizes the design, development, manufacture, and lifecycle support of the engine through SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. SAFHAL is a 50:50 joint venture between the two aerospace manufacturers. The Aravalli engine is slated to power India’s future 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
Technical specifications and manufacturing
The Aravalli engine will operate in the 3,500 to 4,000 shaft horsepower (shp) class. Under the terms of the agreement, HAL will gain access to core engine technologies, including the high-pressure compressor, power turbine, and accessory gearbox. This technology transfer is designed to build domestic intellectual property and expertise in high-power engine design.
Manufacturing operations for the Aravalli program will be based at HAL’s facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka. Safran Helicopter Engines Chief Executive Officer Cédric Goubet noted the precedent set by the agreement in a press release issued by HAL.
“This is the first time Safran HE has taken up such a class of engine as co-development. The Aravalli engine programme represents a new chapter in the strategic relationship between France and India, combining the expertise of our teams to develop propulsion systems for future Indian rotorcraft.”
Development timeline and strategic shift
The final contract follows a multi-year negotiation and planning phase. HAL and Safran initially signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the project in July 2022, followed by detailed workshare discussions at Aero India in February 2023. The companies executed an airframer contract on August 30, 2024, to commence joint design work.
The design and development phase is targeted for completion between 2032 and 2033. Once operational, the IMRH platform is intended to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging fleet of Mil Mi-17 Helicopters. HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K emphasized the domestic industrial impact of the program.
“The signing of this contract marks a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in aero-engine technologies. Through this collaborative programme with SAFHAL and Safran Helicopter Engines, we are creating a strong foundation for powering next-generation Indian helicopter platforms.”
AirPro News analysis
The Aravalli engine contract represents a critical maturation point for India’s defense aviation sector. Historically, Indian aerospace manufacturing has relied heavily on licensed production of foreign designs, which limits domestic engineering capability and intellectual property ownership. By securing a 50:50 co-development structure that includes core engine components like the high-pressure compressor and power turbine, we view this agreement as a foundational step toward true Propulsion independence for the Indian military. If the 2032 to 2033 development timeline holds, HAL will be positioned not just as an assembler, but as a primary original equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for high-power rotorcraft engines.
Sources: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Photo Credit: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Defense & Military
Raytheon Wins $603M Contract for B-52H Radar Modernization
Raytheon secures $603M USAF contract to produce the AN/APQ-188 AESA radar for the B-52H fleet under the B-52 Radar Modernization Program.
This is a developing story. Information may change as official details are released.
Raytheon has secured a $603,000,000 sole-source contract from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to produce and sustain the new AN/APQ-188 radar for the Boeing B-52H Stratofortress fleet, advancing a critical modernization effort despite the recent loss of the program’s primary test aircraft.
The U.S. Department of Defense announced the indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract on August 25, 2026, following the official award on August 21, 2026. The agreement establishes the ceiling value for the production phase of the B-52 Radar Modernization Program (RMP). The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (FFO) in Ohio is the contracting activity, obligating $46,008,396 in fiscal 2026 aircraft procurement funds with the initial delivery order.
Upgrading the B-52 radar capabilities
The RMP replaces the bomber’s 1960s-era mechanically scanned AN/APQ-166 radar with the Raytheon AN/APQ-188, an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) system. The new Radar-Systems is a derivative of the AN/APG-79 used on the F/A-18 and forms a cornerstone of the broader B-52J upgrade package designed to keep the fleet operational into the 2050s.
According to the Department of Defense, Raytheon will perform the contract work across multiple facilities, including Forrest, Mississippi; El Segundo, California; McKinney, Texas; and Warner Robins, Georgia. The contract is expected to be completed by August 20, 2031.
Program continuity following testbed loss
The production contract award follows a major setback for the RMP during the flight testing phase. On June 15, 2026, the sole B-52 radar testbed aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base (EDW) in California. The USAF confirmed the accident resulted in the deaths of all eight crew members on board, which included military personnel, government civilians, and contractors. The official cause of the accident remains under Investigation by the USAF.
Despite the loss of the initial testbed, military officials have confirmed the modernization program will proceed. According to reporting by DefenseScoop, Col. Spencer Turner, the B-52 System Program Manager, stated that the original acquisition strategy always included two test aircraft.
Turner confirmed that work on the second aircraft is actively underway at The Boeing Company facility in San Antonio, Texas. He noted that the service expects to “complete the full modification and put the full radar suite onto the aircraft this year and proceed with testing.” Following the June 15, 2026 accident, the active USAF fleet stands at 75 B-52H bombers.
AirPro News analysis
The decision to award a $603,000,000 production contract just two months after the loss of the primary testbed underscores the firm commitment of the USAF to the B-52J upgrade timeline. Because the AN/APQ-188 is heavily derived from an existing, mature AESA system, the service likely views the radar technology itself as low-risk, separating the radar’s production readiness from the ongoing investigation into the June 15 accident. We note that delaying the production contract until a second testbed completes flight trials would have likely pushed the B-52J initial operational capability timeline to the right, a delay the USAF appears unwilling to accept as it plans to operate the airframe for another three decades.
Sources: U.S. Department of Defense
Photo Credit: US Air Force
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