Turkey Seeks US Approval to Acquire GE Engine for Hurjet Fighter Jet

Turkey has formally submitted a request to the US government for the purchase of GE Aerospace's F404 engine. This move is aimed at powering the country's domestically-developed Hurjet light attack aircraft. The Hurjet, a next-generation aircraft, is central to Turkey's plan to replace its aging fleet of Northrop Grumman T-38 jet trainers and F-5 light jets. Originally designed as a jet trainer, the Hurjet has evolved into a highly capable multi-role aircraft, ready to play a critical role in Turkey's air defense.

An official from the US Embassy in Ankara noted the importance of this request, stating, "We look forward to further deepening our defense partnership with Turkey, a key NATO ally." This signals a positive step in the ongoing relationship between the two countries, despite previous tensions surrounding Turkey’s acquisition of the Russian S-400 air defense system in 2019. However, recent developments, such as Turkey’s support for Sweden’s NATO membership bid, have helped to ease diplomatic strains and open the door to renewed cooperation, especially in defense projects like the Hurjet.

### The Hurjet: Turkey’s High-Tech Fighter

The Hurjet is not just another jet trainer—it has been designed with cutting-edge technology that makes it a highly capable light attack aircraft. Equipped with modern avionics, air-to-ground missiles, and precision-guided munitions, the aircraft is tailored to handle a variety of combat missions. With a service ceiling of 45,000 feet (13,716 meters) and a top speed of Mach 1.2, the Hurjet offers both speed and altitude flexibility, critical in training pilots for more advanced fighter jets while also being combat-ready in its own right.

Its tandem-seat configuration allows for two crew members, providing operational flexibility for either training or combat missions. The aircraft's payload capacity of around three tons (3,000 kilograms/6,614 pounds) enables it to carry an array of weapons and equipment, making it suitable for various military operations. The versatility and performance of the Hurjet make it an attractive option for Turkey as it seeks to modernize its air force.

The F404 Engine: Key to Hurjet’s Success

The F404 engine, manufactured by GE Aerospace, is a tried-and-tested powerplant that has been widely used in aircraft like the F/A-18 Hornet. It provides the Hurjet with reliable thrust and performance, making it well-suited for both training and combat roles. Turkey’s decision to procure the F404 engine highlights its desire for a robust and dependable engine that meets the demands of its growing air force.

However, the F404 is seen as an interim solution. In the long run, Turkey aims to replace the engine with a domestically-produced version, in line with its broader goal of reducing reliance on foreign technology for its defense needs. The push for homegrown technology aligns with Turkey’s ongoing efforts to become more self-sufficient in the defense sector.

The Bigger Picture: Turkey’s Kaan Fighter and the F110 Engine

In addition to the Hurjet program, Turkey is also working on a more ambitious project: the fifth-generation Kaan fighter jet. For this advanced aircraft, Turkey is seeking the GE Aerospace F110 engine, another reliable engine that has powered aircraft like the F-15 and F-16. Similar to the F404, the F110 engine is considered a temporary solution, with plans to eventually replace it with a domestically-developed engine.

Turkey’s efforts to build both the Hurjet and the Kaan fighter jets reflect its broader aspirations to strengthen its domestic aerospace industry and assert itself as a key player in the global defense market. While the country still relies on foreign engines for these projects, its long-term vision is to create indigenous alternatives, reducing dependence on external suppliers.

A Strengthened US-Turkey Defense Partnership

Turkey’s request for the GE Aerospace engines comes at a time when the country is looking to reset its relationship with the US after several years of strained ties. The purchase of the Russian S-400 air defense system in 2019 led to significant fallout between Ankara and Washington, resulting in Turkey’s removal from the F-35 program. However, with improving diplomatic relations, exemplified by Turkey’s recent ratification of Sweden’s NATO membership, both nations are finding ways to move forward, especially in the defense sector.

Securing approval for the F404 and F110 engines would mark a significant step in the ongoing defense collaboration between the two countries, reinforcing Turkey’s role as a crucial NATO ally and advancing its domestic defense capabilities.