Madrid boosts arsenal with Turkish HÜRJET trainer; KAAN, drones next Photo

Spain, having already signed an agreement to acquire Türkiye’s HÜRJET jet trainer, is now reportedly eyeing larger defence collaborations, including the fifth-generation fighter jet KAAN and unmanned aerial vehicles such as Bayraktar and ANKA.

The memorandum of understanding for the HÜRJET acquisition marks a new chapter in defence relations between Madrid and Ankara, signalling Spain’s growing interest in Turkish military technology, Caliber.Az reports per Turkish media.  

Sources suggest that Spain aims to expand its military inventory with Türkiye’s advanced indigenous platforms.

Spanish defence analyst and journalist Jaime Perez Guerra told Turkish media that Türkiye’s progress in the defence sector in recent years has been remarkable. “HÜRJET is just the beginning. KAAN and unmanned systems will also come into focus. Türkiye is now an indispensable partner for Europe,” he said.

A key feature of the HÜRJET deal includes the aircraft’s deployment at a NATO training centre under development in Badajoz, Spain. Experts note that the aircraft’s performance there could serve as a benchmark for potential exports to other countries.

Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), HÜRJET is Türkiye’s first jet-powered training and light attack aircraft. It is intended to replace ageing fleets of F-5 and T-38 jets, boasting a top speed of Mach 1.4, a service ceiling of 45,000 feet, and a payload capacity of 7,500 lbs.

Equipped with advanced digital flight controls, night-vision compatibility, and air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities, the HÜRJET is designed for both training and operational missions.

Spain’s growing interest in Turkish defence technology underscores a shift in European military procurement towards indigenous and innovative systems from emerging defence producers.

By Aghakazim Guliyev