HÜRJET, a jet training and light attack aircraft, one of the most critical projects in Turkish aviation history, has successfully overcome one of the most challenging hurdles on its path to mass production. In tests conducted in the freezing cold of Erzurum, HÜRJET's engine and avionics systems operated flawlessly at temperatures as low as -21 degrees Celsius, proving its readiness for duty under all conditions.
Developed by TUSAŞ under the coordination of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey's Defence Industries Directorate (SSB), HÜRJET, Türkiye's first manned jet aircraft, challenged the most challenging climatic conditions by stepping outside its comfort zone. The HÜRJET fleet, consisting of two different prototypes, arrived at Erzurum Airport and successfully completed the “Cold Weather Tests” conducted there.
It worked flawlessly at -21 degrees.
In aviation, it's not enough for an aircraft to just fly; it must be able to operate in every climate, from the hottest deserts to the coldest regions of the world. HÜRJET took off in Erzurum during the night. minus 21 degrees The device was subjected to “cold soak” tests in freezing temperatures, followed by operational tests.
The following critical data were confirmed in the tests conducted:
- Engine Starting: The jet engine's initial start-up performance in the extreme cold was flawless.
- Avionics Resistance: The sensitive electronics and flight control computers inside the cockpit continued to function without performance loss despite the risk of freezing.
- Mechanical Systems: The hydraulic systems and landing gear proved resistant to hardening or seizing issues that could be caused by low temperatures.
Erzurum's “High Altitude” Advantage
The selection of Erzurum as the test site was no coincidence. It was due not only to the cold weather but also to the city's geographical features. “High Altitude” Its performance was also tested. HÜRJET proved that it maintained engine efficiency at high altitudes and low oxygen levels, both in ground tests and in subsequent flight tests.
A Critical Reference for Export
TUSAŞ's ability to subject two different prototypes to this challenging process simultaneously demonstrates the engineering maturity of the project. The success of these tests shows that HÜRJET can compete not only in Turkey but also in markets with challenging climates, such as those in northern countries.
Having successfully passed both hot and cold weather tests, the National Jet has passed another crucial certification stage on its way to full operational capability (FOC) and mass production.
Demiroğlu: “We have surpassed Boeing and Leonardo, we will increase production to 3 per month’
While the testing processes are progressing successfully, TUSAŞ General Manager Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu also shared critical information regarding HÜRJET's mass production and export potential. Speaking on SAHA Istanbul, Demiroğlu mentioned the Spanish Air Force's... Boeing (T-7) And Leonardo (M-346) He emphasized that they chose HÜRJET by eliminating global competitors such as [mention specific companies], and that the commitment to “on-time delivery” was effective in this success.
Demiroğlu announced the good news that the mass production line has started operating at full capacity., “Production of the first batch of 12 aircraft ordered for the Turkish Air Force is currently underway. Our goal is to increase production speed to 2, then 3 aircraft per month in a short time.’ Demiroğlu also stated that some component assemblies of HÜRJET will be carried out in Kayseri, signaling the spread of the aviation industry to Anatolia.
Source: The data in this news report has been compiled from information provided by Anadolu Agency (AA).
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