Exclusive: Türkiye’s HÜRKUŞ-C Tests 1-Ton Bomb Demonstrating Capability as Trainer and Light Attack Aircraft.

On May 22, 2025, during the International Anatolian Phoenix-2025 Exercise in Konya, Turkey's indigenous Hürkuş aircraft achieved a significant milestone by successfully deploying a 1-ton bomb, marking a pivotal advancement in its operational capabilities. This event underscores Turkey's growing prowess in defense technology and its commitment to enhancing the versatility of its domestically produced aircraft.
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The Hürkuş-C variant, tailored for close air support, can carry up to 1,500 kg of external payload and is capable of operating from unprepared runways. Its armament includes guided munitions such as the Roketsan UMTAS anti-tank missiles and Cirit laser-guided rockets (Picture source: TAI)

The HÜRKUŞ, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), is a tandem two-seat, low-wing, single-engine turboprop aircraft designed for both training and light attack missions. Equipped with advanced avionics, including a Head-Up Display (HUD), Multi-Function Displays (MFDs), and a mission computer, the aircraft offers a cockpit layout akin to modern fighter jets like the F-16 and F-35. The Hürkuş-C variant, tailored for close air support, can carry up to 1,500 kg of external payload and is capable of operating from unprepared runways. Its armament includes guided munitions such as the Roketsan UMTAS anti-tank missiles and Cirit laser-guided rockets.

The recent exercise demonstrated the Hürkuş's ability to deliver heavy ordnance with precision, utilizing its onboard systems for both targeting and laser designation. The 1-ton bomb deployed is likely the HGK-84, a GPS/INS-guided munition developed by TÜBİTAK-SAGE, which transforms conventional 2,000-pound Mk-84 bombs into smart weapons capable of striking targets with high accuracy in all weather conditions.

This capability positions the Hürkuş as a formidable asset in asymmetric warfare scenarios, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive jet-powered aircraft. Its ability to deliver substantial payloads with precision makes it suitable for counter-insurgency operations and missions requiring close air support. Moreover, the Hürkuş's versatility could allow it to supplement or, in certain contexts, replace older platforms in the Turkish Air Force and potentially in allied nations seeking affordable yet capable aircraft.

The Hürkuş program has garnered international interest, with countries like Niger and Chad already operating the aircraft. The Turkish Air Force has placed orders for the Hürkuş-B variant, and deliveries of the enhanced Hürkuş-II are expected to commence in 2025. The program's success reflects Turkey's strategic investment in indigenous defense capabilities and its ambition to become a key player in the global aerospace industry.

The successful deployment of a 1-ton bomb by the Hürkuş during the Anatolian Phoenix-2025 Exercise signifies a leap forward in Turkey's defense aviation capabilities. This achievement not only enhances the operational flexibility of the Hürkuş but also reinforces Turkey's position as a producer of advanced, cost-effective military aircraft suitable for a range of combat scenarios.