GE Aerospace has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Turkish Aerospace and TUSAŞ Engine Industries Inc. (TEI) to enhance collaboration on integrating GE Aerospace’s F404 engine into new variants of the HÜRJET aircraft. This agreement builds upon their existing partnership in the HÜRJET program, marking a significant milestone in Türkiye’s aviation sector.
The HÜRJET, Türkiye’s first domestically manufactured advanced training jet, has already incorporated the F404 engine under a prior agreement, currently undergoing qualification with the Turkish Air Force. Expected to be a strong contender in the global training jet market, the HÜRJET features a single-engine, tandem-seat configuration with modern avionics and high-performance capabilities.
Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu, President and CEO of Turkish Aerospace, emphasized the MOU’s potential for mutual success: “This aircraft fulfils a critical role in modern pilot training by delivering excellent performance in a single-engine, tandem-seat configuration, alongside modern avionics and high-performance features. We believe this MOU will bring success to all parties”.
Under the terms of the MOU, the three companies will collaborate on flight testing new HÜRJET variants and explore applications for other GE Aerospace Defence & Systems products. TEI, established as a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Turkish Aerospace, is being explored to handle the assembly, inspection, and testing of F404 engines in Türkiye. Additionally, TEI will provide assembly, maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the engines used in Turkish Aerospace’s HÜRJET aircraft and for potential export customers. This agreement also positions TEI to support global F404 end-users on platforms beyond the HÜRJET.
Prof. Mahmut F. Akşit, General Manager of TEI, underscored the company’s commitment and expertise in engine production and maintenance, emphasizing TEI’s pivotal role in Türkiye’s defence and aviation sectors. He expressed confidence that these strengths position TEI strongly for success in the program.
GE Aerospace’s President & CEO of Defense & System, Amy Gowder, underscored the strategic significance of the MOU. “Through this MOU, GE Aerospace is proud to deepen our nearly six-decade commitment to Türkiye’s economic development and participate in a program that builds on the strengths of each party to create a program with global prospects,”
The F404 engine, known for its versatility and reliability, is currently operational or under order in sixteen nations, solidifying its reputation as a preferred choice for Air Force applications worldwide. GE Aerospace has maintained a strong presence in Türkiye for nearly six decades, with operations supporting a substantial number of commercial and defence engines across the country.
