Hürjet Aircraft at the Core of Spain-Turkiye Fighter Training Partnership.

According to information published by the Spanish government on December 20, 2024, Spain and Turkey have formalized an agreement aimed at advancing military cooperation in the field of pilot training.
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Spain and Turkey solidify defense collaboration with a new agreement to develop advanced pilot training systems. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Amparo Valcarce, Spain's Secretary of State for Defense (SEDEF), and Nüket Küçükel Ezberci, Turkey’s ambassador to Spain, signed a memorandum of understanding on behalf of Turkey’s Defense Industries Presidency (SSB). This agreement centers on the development of an advanced training system for the Spanish Air and Space Force’s fighter pilots.

The cornerstone of this collaboration is the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) Hürjet, a supersonic advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft. Designed to provide a seamless transition for pilots moving from training to operating frontline fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-18 Hornet, the Hürjet is a state-of-the-art aircraft featuring advanced avionics, a glass cockpit, and simulation systems capable of replicating realistic combat scenarios. It also boasts versatile operational capabilities, allowing it to fulfill roles such as light attack missions, air patrols, and close air support.

For Spain, the Hürjet presents a timely solution as the nation prepares to retire its aging fleet of Northrop F-5M trainers, which have been in service since the 1970s and are slated for decommissioning by 2030. These trainers currently play a critical role in preparing Spanish pilots for modern fighter operations. The agreement with Turkey ensures a potential replacement that not only meets Spain’s operational needs but also enhances its domestic defense industry. Spanish firms are expected to participate actively in the production and assembly phases of the Hürjet.

This collaboration comes at a time of modernization for the Spanish Air and Space Force. Alongside the Hürjet project, Spain has recently placed an order for 25 additional Eurofighter Halcón II aircraft.

For Spain, the Hürjet presents a timely solution as the nation prepares to retire its aging fleet of Northrop F-5M trainers, which have been in service since the 1970s and are slated for decommissioning by 2030. These trainers currently play a critical role in preparing Spanish pilots for modern fighter operations. Spanish firms are expected to participate actively in the production and assembly phases of the Hürjet, reinforcing the project’s bilateral nature.

This collaboration comes at a time of modernization for the Spanish Air and Space Force. Alongside the Hürjet project, Spain has recently placed an order for 25 additional Eurofighter Halcón II aircraft.

The memorandum is more than a procurement initiative; it symbolizes a deepening of defense ties between Spain and Turkey.