Turkiye was removed from the F-35 program due to its decision to purchase a Russian missile defense system, the S-400. The United States, along with other NATO allies, viewed this move as a security threat to the F-35 program. The S-400 is designed to detect and shoot down enemy aircraft, including the F-35, which is one of the most advanced stealth fighters in the world. The US was concerned that the Russian system could be used to gain critical intelligence about the F-35’s capabilities, which could be exploited in the event of a future conflict.

In addition to the security concerns, political tensions between the US and Turkiye also played a role in the decision to remove Turkiye from the F-35 program. The US had been warning Turkiye against the purchase of the S-400 for years, and had even offered to sell Turkiye its own Patriot missile defense system as an alternative. However, Turkiye went ahead with the purchase of the S-400, prompting the US to remove Turkiye from the F-35 program.

After Turkiye was removed from the F-35 program, it strongly criticized the decision, arguing that it was unfair and that the S-400 did not pose a threat to the F-35 program. The Turkish government also accused the US of not fulfilling its obligations under the F-35 program, and of failing to provide Turkiye with the necessary technology and training to operate the fighter jets.

Despite the controversy surrounding the decision, the US has remained firm in its position, and Turkiye has been officially removed from the F-35 program. The decision has caused a strain in the relationship between the US and Turkiye, which was already tense due to political tensions and other security concerns.

Furthermore, the removal from the F-35 program has significant implications for Turkiye’s military capabilities and its relationship with NATO. The F-35 is one of the most advanced stealth fighters in the world, and Turkiye’s participation in the program was seen as a way to strengthen its military.

The decision to purchase the S-400 missile defense system was a controversial one, and it has put Turkiye at odds with its NATO allies, who view the Russian system as a security threat. The removal from the F-35 program is just one of the consequences of Turkiye’s decision, and it remains to be seen what other effects it will have on Turkiye’s relationship with NATO and its military capabilities.

The Turkish aerospace industry has seen a tremendous boost in recent years, thanks to its ambitious projects and growing exports. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the developments in Turkish aerospace programs since the last 5-7 years that have made Turkiye a prominent player in the global aerospace market. Below is a brief snapshot of what Turkish aerospace industry has achieved through various domestic military aviation projects including both manned and unmanned platforms. Clearly Turkiye is en route to self-sufficiency in this field though destination is far yet but with below menitoned projects and rate of their success, it is evident that the day is not far when Turkiye will be able to establish a completely local industrial base and ecosystem to undertake next generation cutting edge military engieering endevors.

 

TB-2

One of the most notable achievements of Turkiye in the aerospace domain is the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones, such as TB-2 and Akinci. These UAVs have proven their effectiveness in various military operations and have attracted international customers. According to the Turkish Exporters Assembly, the export of Turkish defense and aerospace products increased by 16.8% in 2020, reaching USD 2.27 billion, with UAVs being one of the main drivers of this growth.

During the recent conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, the Turkish-made TB-2 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) played a significant role. The Azerbaijani military relied heavily on the TB-2 to carry out reconnaissance and precision strikes against Armenian targets. The TB-2, produced by the Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, proved to be highly effective, with some estimates suggesting that it destroyed hundreds of Armenian tanks, artillery pieces, and other military vehicles.

The TB-2 is a tactical UAV with a wingspan of 12 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 630 kg. It has a range of up to 150 km and can fly at an altitude of up to 27,000 feet. Equipped with a variety of sensors, including electro-optical, infrared, and synthetic aperture radar, the TB-2 is capable of providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) data to ground forces.

One of the key advantages of the TB-2 is its ability to carry a variety of weapons, including precision-guided munitions such as the MAM-L and MAM-C. These weapons have proved to be highly effective in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, allowing the Azerbaijani military to strike Armenian targets with remarkable accuracy.

The success of the TB-2 in Nagorno-Karabakh has prompted other countries to express interest in acquiring the drone. As a result, Turkey’s position as a major player in the global UAV market has been further cemented. The TB-2 has become a symbol of Turkey’s growing aerospace and defense industries and its ability to produce advanced technology that can compete on the global stage.

In addition to the TB-2, Turkiye has also developed other advanced UAVs, such as the Akinci and Anka. These UAVs have been used in a variety of military operations and have helped to enhance Turkiye’s military capabilities. As a result, Turkiye’s aerospace industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with exports of defense and aerospace products increasing by 16.8% in 2020, reaching USD 2.27 billion.

Overall, the TB-2’s role in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has demonstrated the effectiveness of UAVs in modern warfare and has highlighted Turkiye’s growing capabilities in the aerospace and defense industries. As other countries continue to express interest in acquiring the TB-2 and other Turkish-made UAVs, Turkiye’s position as a major player in the global UAV market is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.

Akinci

The Akinci drone is one of the notable achievements of Turkiye in the aerospace domain, representing a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to develop its domestic aerospace industry and reduce its dependence on foreign military technology. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the drone is a high-altitude, long-endurance UAV that has undergone several test flights, with the expectation of entering service with the Turkish Armed Forces in the near future.

The Akinci drone has a wingspan of 20 meters and is capable of flying at an altitude of up to 40,000 feet for up to 24 hours. It is equipped with a variety of sensors, including electro-optical, infrared, and synthetic aperture radar, and can carry a range of weapons, including precision-guided munitions. The drone’s advanced capabilities make it an attractive option for countries looking to upgrade their military capabilities, potentially opening up new markets for Turkish defense exports.

The development of the Akinci drone is part of Turkiye’s broader efforts to develop its domestic aerospace industry and reduce its dependence on foreign military technology. Turkiye’s aerospace industry is supported by a strong domestic manufacturing base, a skilled workforce, and a favorable political environment. As a result, Turkiye’s aerospace industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with exports of defense and aerospace products increasing by 16.8% in 2020, reaching USD 2.27 billion.

The development of the Akinci drone is a significant achievement for Turkish aerospace and defense industries, and a source of pride for the country. Its successful deployment will not only enhance Turkiye’s military capabilities but also contribute to the growth and development of its domestic aerospace industry. The drone’s success in the global UAV market has further cemented Turkiye’s position as a major player in the aerospace industry, and its continued growth and innovation in the field is expected to continue in the coming years, as it pursues new projects and markets.

Overall, the Akinci drone’s development history demonstrates Turkey’s commitment to developing cutting-edge aerospace technology, enhancing its military capabilities, and boosting its economy through the growth of its domestic aerospace industry. It is a testament to Turkey’s growing presence in the global aerospace market and its potential to become a leading player in the field.

TFX

A third example of Turkey’s aerospace progress is the TF-X program, which is a joint venture between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) and BAE Systems to design and produce a fifth-generation fighter jet for the Turkish Air Force. The TF-X program was initiated in 2010 and has received funding from both the Turkish government and foreign partners. The TF-X jet is planned to have stealth features, advanced avionics, and a powerful engine. The first flight of the TF-X jet is scheduled for 2025.

The Turkish National Project TFX aircraft is a fifth-generation fighter jet being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in collaboration with BAE Systems. The project was initiated in 2010 and is aimed at replacing the Turkish Air Force’s aging fleet of F-16 fighter jets. The TFX jet will have advanced avionics like AESA radar and Hemet Mounted Display (HMD), stealth airframe similar to Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor, and a powerful turbofan engine.

The development of TFX has been a significant national project for Turkey, with the goal of increasing the country’s military capabilities and reducing its dependence on foreign military technology. The project has been supported by the Turkish government, which has allocated significant funding to the development of TFX, and by Turkish industry, which has provided expertise and resources to the project. But the reality is TFX project is a very ambitious project considering the engineering knowledge and industrial base. This is why the TFX program has faced several challenges and delays, including technical difficulties and disagreements between TAI and BAE Systems. However, the program has continued to move forward, with the first flight of the TF-X jet now scheduled for 2025.

Once completed, the TFX is expected to be a significant asset for the Turkish Air Force, providing it with advanced capabilities for air-to-air combat and ground attack missions. The TFX is also anticipated to be an attractive option for other countries looking to upgrade their military capabilities, potentially opening up new markets for Turkish defense exports.

Overall, the Turkish National Project TFX aircraft represents a significant achievement for Turkish aerospace and defense industries, and a source of pride for the country. Its successful development and deployment will not only enhance Turkey’s military capabilities but also contribute to the growth and development of its domestic aerospace industry by giving it invaluable experience and research knowledge.

Hurjet

The Hurjet Trainer jet program is a Turkish national project aimed at developing a new advanced jet trainer and light attack aircraft for the Turkish Armed Forces. The project was launched in 2018 by the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) and is being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). The Hurjet is expected to replace the T-38 Talon and F-5 Freedom Fighter currently in service with the Turkish Air Force. The Hurjet is planned to have advanced avionics, a glass cockpit, and a modern fly-by-wire control system. The first flight of the Hurjet is scheduled for 2022, with deliveries expected in 2025.

These are just some of the highlights of Turkey’s aerospace industry, which has grown significantly in recent years and has become a source of national pride and strategic advantage for Turkey. Turkey’s aerospace industry is also supported by a strong domestic manufacturing base, a skilled workforce, and a favorable political environment. Turkey’s aerospace industry is expected to continue its growth and innovation in the coming years, as it pursues new projects and markets.

Kizilelma

Kizilelma is a Turkish unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that is currently undergoing flight tests. It is developed by Baykar, a leading Turkish aerospace company that also produces the Bayraktar TB2 UCAV. Kizilelma is Turkey’s first indigenous unmanned fighter aircraft and aims to combine low-observability, supersonic speed and high maneuverability. It is a symbol of strong and growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) knowledge base in Turkey as many of its operations will be completely autonomous.

The history of Kizilelma dates back to 2013, when Baykar started the conceptual studies for the project, which was initially called MIUS (Muharip İnsansız Uçak Sistemi). The official name, Kizilelma, which means “Red Apple” in Turkish, was revealed in March 2022. The name refers to a mythical land in Turkish folklore that symbolizes the ultimate goal of conquest.

The development of Kizilelma involved several milestones, such as the engine selection, the prototype assembly, and the ground and flight tests. Baykar signed an agreement with Ukrainian Ivchenko-Progress to supply AI-25TLT and AI-322 turbofan engines for the subsonic and supersonic versions of Kizilelma, respectively. The first ready-to-fly prototype was displayed to the public in Teknofest 2022, a major technology festival in Turkey. The first engine integration test was successfully conducted on September 19, 2022, followed by the first autonomous taxi and take-off roll test on November 20, 2022. The maiden flight of Kizilelma took place on December 14, 2022, ahead of the expected date of 2023. The second flight test was completed in mid-January 2023.

The airframe particularly main wing assembly design of Kizilelma closely resembles the Chinese Chengdu J-20 stealth fighter aircraft, with a delta wing, canards and canted vertical stabilizers. The aircraft features a low-RCS supersonic airframe equipped with an AESA radar and coupled-canard controls for increased maneuverability or better controlling the main wing airflow. The aircraft is powered by a single turbofan engine fed by two air inlets and has an exposed exhaust nozzle. The aircraft has a retractable landing gear and is capable of taking off and landing on short-runway aircraft carriers, such as the Turkish Navy’s Anadolu amphibious assault ship.

The specification of Kizilelma is not fully disclosed yet, but some information has been shared by Baykar. The aircraft is expected to fly for five hours and travel at speeds of up to 800 kilometers per hour or Mach 0.64 in its subsonic version. The supersonic version will have a higher speed and a twin-engine configuration. The maximum take-off weight of Kizilelma is 6 tons and the payload capacity is 1,500 kilograms.

Final Thoughts

What Turkiye has achieved despite constraint economic situation and geopolitical isolation in NATO in the aerospace field is unprecedented in many ways. Running so many projects successfully and meeting milestones one after another is no small feat for any nation. China perhaps is the only country where so many military aviation projects are running in parallel. Turkiye’s success is more astounding considering the fact that many of these projects are being run by privately owned Baykar Aerospace which is a private Turkish defence company specialising in UAVs, C4I and artificial intelligence while Chinese companies are actually owned and run by the Chinese state institutions.  Investment in education sector, establishing conducive business environment and investment friendly policies are some of the key takeaway from this success story of Turkish aerospace which is vividly transforming air power applications in battlefield. The US removed Turkiye from F-35 program but it seems that within next 2 decades, US will find a stiff competitor in next gen trainers and fighters in the form of Turkiye.