Türkiye Expands T625 Gökbey Helicopter Fleet with Domestic Engines

Türkiye’s Strategic Expansion of the T625 Gökbey Helicopter Fleet

Türkiye’s defense industry has made significant strides in recent years, with a clear focus on self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. One of the most prominent examples of this strategy is the T625 Gökbey Helicopters program. Originally conceived as part of the Turkish Light Class Utility Helicopter (TLUH) initiative, the Gökbey is a domestically developed, multi-role platform designed for both military and civilian applications.

The recent announcement at IDEF 2025 regarding Türkiye’s order of 57 additional Gökbey helicopters marks a pivotal moment for the program. This procurement not only strengthens the country’s defense capabilities but also underscores its commitment to indigenous production, particularly through the integration of the locally developed TEI-TS1400 turboshaft engine. With deliveries scheduled to begin in 2028, this move reflects long-term strategic planning in both defense and industrial policy.

As Türkiye continues to expand its aerospace capabilities, the Gökbey project serves as a case study in the intersection of technology, policy, and geopolitics. This article explores the background, technical specifications, recent developments, and broader implications of the latest Gökbey order.

Background: The Road to Indigenous Helicopter Capability

The T625 Gökbey project was launched in 2013 under the auspices of the Turkish Light Class Utility Helicopter Program. The initiative aimed to replace aging platforms such as the Bell UH-1H and Sikorsky S-70B, which had long served in various branches of Türkiye’s armed forces. The broader goal was to reduce reliance on foreign-made systems and foster a sustainable domestic aerospace industry.

Development of the helicopter was led by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), with significant contributions from other local firms including Aselsan for Avionics and TEI for engine development. The first prototype took flight in 2018, and by 2024, the helicopter had received civil certification, marking a major milestone in its development cycle.

The Gökbey is designed as a 6-ton class utility helicopter capable of performing a wide range of missions, from troop transport and medical evacuation to search and rescue and offshore operations. Its versatility and modular design make it a valuable asset for both military and civilian users.

Strategic Objectives and National Policy

Türkiye’s defense strategy has increasingly emphasized the importance of indigenous production. The Gökbey program aligns with this vision by incorporating locally developed components, including the TEI-TS1400 engine. This engine replaces the previously used LHTEC CTS800, a joint U.S.-U.K. product, thereby reducing exposure to export restrictions and political uncertainties.

The Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) has played a central role in coordinating these efforts, ensuring that projects like the Gökbey receive the necessary funding, oversight, and strategic direction. The recent order of 57 helicopters is a testament to the government’s confidence in the platform and its readiness for large-scale deployment.

By investing in domestic capabilities, Türkiye aims to achieve strategic autonomy in critical defense technologies. This not only enhances national security but also positions the country as a competitive player in the global defense market.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The T625 Gökbey is engineered to deliver high performance across various operational scenarios. Its maximum takeoff weight is 6,050 kg, and it can reach speeds of up to 306 km/h. The helicopter has a standard range of 740 km, which can be extended to 948 km with auxiliary fuel tanks. Its service ceiling is 6,096 meters, allowing it to operate effectively in diverse environments.

One of the standout features of the Gökbey is its avionics suite, developed by Aselsan. The cockpit features a digital glass interface with touchscreen displays and advanced navigation systems. These technologies enhance situational awareness and reduce pilot workload, contributing to safer and more efficient operations.

The helicopter can accommodate up to 12 passengers in addition to two crew members. This makes it suitable for a wide range of missions, from transporting troops and supplies to conducting humanitarian and disaster relief operations.

“The Gökbey represents a leap forward in Türkiye’s aerospace capabilities, offering a versatile and reliable platform for both military and civilian users.”, Mehmet Demiroğlu, CEO of TUSAŞ

Integration of the TEI-TS1400 Engine

A key milestone in the Gökbey program has been the integration of the TEI-TS1400 engine. Developed by TUSAŞ Engine Industries (TEI), this turboshaft engine is a critical component in Türkiye’s efforts to localize defense production. The engine has undergone rigorous testing, including cold-weather trials in Sweden, to validate its performance under extreme conditions.

The TEI-TS1400 delivers the necessary power and efficiency for the Gökbey while eliminating the need for foreign-sourced propulsion systems. This not only enhances operational security but also contributes to economic savings. According to official sources, the use of domestic engines is expected to save Türkiye approximately $60 million annually.

With its successful integration, the TEI-TS1400 sets a precedent for future aerospace projects, potentially including unmanned aerial vehicles and other rotary-wing platforms.

Recent Developments and Future Outlook

The contract for 57 new Gökbey helicopters was signed at the IDEF 2025 defense exhibition, signaling a major expansion of the program. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2028, with units allocated to various branches, including six helicopters for the Coast Guard and a significant number for the Naval Forces Command.

In parallel with domestic orders, TUSAŞ has accelerated production capabilities, aiming to manufacture up to four helicopters per month. The company has also set an ambitious export goal of 400 units by 2026, reflecting growing international interest in the platform.

One notable development is a reported $1 billion offer from an unnamed foreign buyer for 32 Gökbey helicopters. While details remain confidential, such interest underscores the helicopter’s potential in global markets, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa.

Operational Testing and Certification

The Gökbey has undergone extensive testing to ensure its reliability and performance. In early 2025, it completed cold-weather trials in Sweden, where over 60 test flights evaluated its rotor systems, hydraulic performance, and engine behavior in sub-zero conditions. These tests were crucial for validating its suitability for diverse climates and operational scenarios.

In December 2024, the Gökbey received civil Certification, enabling its use in non-military applications such as emergency medical services and search-and-rescue missions. This certification opens up new markets and broadens the helicopter’s appeal beyond the defense sector.

The helicopter also made its international debut during Teknofest in Northern Cyprus, marking its first overseas flight and showcasing its capabilities to a global audience.

Conclusion

The expansion of the T625 Gökbey fleet represents a significant milestone in Türkiye’s defense and aerospace strategy. By investing in indigenous technologies and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, the country is not only enhancing its national security but also laying the groundwork for a competitive export industry.

Looking ahead, the Gökbey is poised to play a central role in Türkiye’s defense modernization efforts. Its versatility, advanced technologies, and cost-effectiveness make it a strong contender in both domestic and international markets. As production ramps up and export deals materialize, the Gökbey could become a flagship product in Türkiye’s growing defense portfolio.

FAQ

What is the T625 Gökbey helicopter?
The T625 Gökbey is a domestically developed light utility helicopter designed by Turkish Aerospace Industries for both military and civilian use.

How many Gökbey helicopters has Türkiye ordered?
Türkiye recently ordered 57 additional Gökbey helicopters, bringing the total planned fleet to over 70 units.

When will the new helicopters be delivered?
Delivery for the new batch are scheduled to begin in 2028.

What engine powers the Gökbey?
The helicopter is powered by the TEI-TS1400 turboshaft engine, which is developed domestically by TUSAŞ Engine Industries.

Is the Gökbey available for export?
Yes, TUSAŞ is actively marketing the Gökbey internationally, with a potential $1 billion deal currently under discussion.

Sources

Army Recognition,
Aviation News,
Defence Turkey,
EDR Magazine,
Defence Security Asia,
Wikipedia,
TRT World,
Daily Sabah