HÜRJET Jet Training Aircraft Surpasses Sound Barrier
**The HÜRJET Jet Training Aircraft has achieved a remarkable feat by surpassing the sound barrier, clocking in at a speed of 1.01 Mach. This significant milestone was announced in the February issue of TUSAŞ’s GökVatan magazine, which detailed various advancements, including the extraordinary capabilities of the HÜRJET.**
On October 21, 2024, the HÜRJET took off from Mürted Airfield at 9:45 AM, marking a historic moment as it broke the sound barrier. The aircraft remained airborne for 38 minutes, solidifying its status as Turkey’s first domestic jet to reach supersonic speeds, and successfully completed a controlled landing. Since its inaugural flight on April 25, 2023, HÜRJET has undergone over 150 tests and gained international attention, notably with two demonstration flights over the Giza Pyramids in Egypt.
Development Timeline of HÜRJET
The development of the HÜRJET began in August 2017 under the Jet Training Aircraft Development Project, initiated to address the needs of the Turkish Air Force Command. The conceptual design was completed by April 2018, followed by the finalization of preliminary design activities in 2019 and critical design work in February 2021. Production of its approximately 8,000 components started in January 2021, which were then assembled in the aircraft’s final assembly line.
HÜRJET’s design is a product of TUSAŞ’s commitment to utilizing domestic resources, featuring a single-engine and a tandem seating arrangement paired with a modern avionics cockpit. The aircraft’s first flight on April 25, 2023, marked a significant step in its development, paving the way for further testing and advancements.
The Second Prototype Takes Flight
The second prototype of HÜRJET, named in honor of Turkish martyrs, successfully took to the skies, reaching an altitude of 10,000 feet and achieving a speed of 200 knots during its maiden flight. This flight lasted 26 minutes and showcased the aircraft’s capabilities, following the first prototype’s notable achievement of reaching 45,000 feet while surpassing the sound barrier.
Significant modifications were made to the second prototype, including changes to the air inlets and nose section, as well as the addition of missile launchers on the wings. These enhancements indicate that the second prototype is prepared for ammunition testing, further expanding its operational capabilities.
A Tribute to Fallen Heroes
The names of TUSAŞ personnel who lost their lives in a terrorist attack on October 23 have been inscribed on the second prototype, serving as a poignant tribute to their sacrifice. This gesture underscores TUSAŞ’s commitment to honoring their memory and reflects a broader message of resilience within the Turkish defense industry.
Following the tragedy, TUSAŞ emphasized its determination to enhance production efforts, transforming the phrase “we will work harder, we will produce more” into a rallying cry that embodies the spirit of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Challenges for Competitors
As HÜRJET continues to make strides, its competitor, the T-7A aircraft, is grappling with various challenges that may hinder its progress. The ongoing issues faced by the T-7A highlight the competitive landscape within the jet training aircraft sector.
In contrast, HÜRJET’s recent successes position it favorably in the market, showcasing Turkey’s growing capabilities in the defense sector and its commitment to producing advanced military aircraft.
