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Turkey to export Hürjet flight simulator to Spain following jet deals

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Turkey will export a full-mission flight simulator for its domestically developed Hürjet advanced jet trainer to Spain, expanding a defense partnership between the two NATO allies that already includes multi-billion euro aircraft deals, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported.

The simulator, developed by Turkish defense contractor HAVELSAN, will support pilot training, mission planning and pre-flight preparation as part of Spain’s modernization of its air force training fleet, according to Anadolu.

The move follows a series of agreements between Ankara and Madrid centered on the Hürjet advanced jet trainer, produced by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

In December 2025, Spain signed a contract with Turkey to purchase 30 Turkish-made Hürjet jet trainer aircraft in a deal valued at €2.6 billion ($3 billion).

The export of the simulator signals that the program extends beyond aircraft delivery to include integrated training architecture. The system is designed to allow pilots to conduct ground-based instruction and rehearse operational scenarios before live flights.

The Hürjet agreements represent Turkey’s first major export success for the platform and deepen defense cooperation between Ankara and Madrid, two NATO allies.

Developed by TAI, the Hürjet is a twin-seat, single-engine supersonic jet designed for advanced training and light attack missions. The aircraft made its first flight in April 2023 after development began in 2017.

Turkey plans to replace its T-38M and NF-5 trainer aircraft with the Hürjet in the 2030s and is considering the platform for close air support missions along with its F-16 fleet. TAI has said it also plans to develop a carrier-capable naval version.

The Hürjet will compete with Boeing’s T-7, Korea Aerospace Industries’ T-50 and Leonardo’s M-346 in the export market.

The development comes amid a rapid rise in Turkey’s arms exports over the past two decades.

According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI),  Turkey’s arms exports have increased by more than 1,000 percent over the past two decades, reflecting the rapid expansion of the country’s defense industry.

SIPRI’s Trend Indicator Value (TIV) data show that Turkey’s annual arms export volume rose from 28 in 2004 to 332 in 2024. Exports peaked at 699 in 2023, marking the highest level recorded for the country.

In recent years Turkey has expanded exports particularly in drones, armored vehicles and naval platforms, strengthening its position in the global arms market.

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