GÖKBEY, the domestically developed helicopter by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), has completed two more critical tests.
GÖKBEY reached its maximum service altitude, climbing to 20,000 feet. Furthermore, during the flight, which was conducted with twin engines, it demonstrated its ability to fly with only one engine.
GÖKBEY is a new generation, twin-engine, 6-ton class multi-purpose helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Turkish Armed Forces and other institutions. GÖKBEY made its first flight in 2018. In 2020, it performed its first flight with the domestically produced TS1400 engine. Serial production of GÖKBEY is planned to begin in 2024.
What is the GÖKBEY Helicopter and what are its features?
GÖKBEY is a new generation, twin-engine, 6-ton class multi-purpose helicopter developed as Türkiye's first domestically produced helicopter. GÖKBEY is designed for multi-purpose operations such as cargo, VIP transport, emergency medical services, and search and rescue. GÖKBEY's aerodynamics are engineered to provide low vibration, minimal noise, efficient fuel consumption, improved range, and durability.
Some technical specifications of GÖKBEY are as follows:
- Length: 15.87 m
- Main rotor diameter: 13.20 m
- Maximum takeoff weight: 6050 kg
- Crew: 2
- Passengers: 12
- Standard fuel tank capacity: 1020 kg
- Auxiliary fuel tank capacity: 280 kg
- Cargo compartment volume: 1.1 m3
- Starting power: 2×1024 kW
- Maximum cruising speed: 306 km/h
- Service ceiling: 6096 m²
- Range: 740+ km (948+ km with auxiliary fuel tank)
- Flight duration: 3.8+ hours (5+ hours with auxiliary fuel tank)
GÖKBEY made its first flight in 2018. In 2020, it performed its first flight with the domestically produced TS1400 engine. GÖKBEY is planned to enter mass production in 2024.
What is the price of GÖKBEY?
There is no definitive information about the price of GÖKBEY. However, a contract worth $687.3 million was signed in 2013 between the Turkish Presidency of Defence Industries and Turkish Aerospace Industries for the development of GÖKBEY. This figure covers the design, development, testing, and certification activities of GÖKBEY. It is estimated that GÖKBEY will be offered at a competitive price in both military and civilian markets. GÖKBEY is considered to be more efficient, safer, and more comfortable than other helicopters in its class. It is also a source of pride that GÖKBEY is Türkiye's first domestically produced helicopter. We hope to see GÖKBEY helicopters flying with the TS1400 engine soon.
