Turkey’s “Hurjet” FLIT/LCA Aircraft Chosen by the Spanish Air Force

Spain's acquisition of the "Hurjet" advanced trainer/light combat aircraft will be conducted through a barter arrangement. Under this agreement, Spain will receive 24 "Hurjet" aircraft, while Turkey will obtain seven Airbus A400M transport aircraft in return.

By admin On Aug 3, 2024

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The Spanish Air Force is reportedly set to acquire the Fighter Lead-In Trainer/Light Combat Aircraft (FLIT/LCA) “Hurjet” developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), to replace its current SF-5M advanced trainer aircraft.

If this report is accurate, Spain will become the first European country to procure Turkish-made FLIT/LCA aircraft.

The acquisition of the “Hurjet” by Spain is expected to be a barter deal, where Spain will receive 24 “Hurjet” aircraft, while Turkey will receive seven Airbus A400M transport aircraft in return.

According to Turkish media reports, the Spanish Air Force is expected to begin receiving the Turkish-built “Hurjet” FLIT/LCA aircraft in 2028.

Turkey is keen on adding more A400M transport aircraft to its air force fleet.

In addition to Spain, Turkey is actively negotiating with several other countries interested in acquiring the “Hurjet,” including Azerbaijan and Canada.

Since last year, the Spanish Air Force has expressed its intention to replace the locally manufactured SF-5M advanced trainer aircraft.

Several companies have shown interest in providing a replacement, including Boeing with its T-7, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) with the T-50, and Leonardo with the M-346.

If the reports about the Spanish Air Force selecting the “Hurjet” are true, the aircraft will be stationed at the 23rd Squadron of the Spanish Air Force at Talavera La Real Air Base.

The “Hurjet” will take over the role of training fighter pilots for the Eurofighter Typhoon and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, previously performed by the SF-5M.

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