In a significant development for both nations’ defense sectors, Turkey and Spain are in advanced talks over a potential military aircraft exchange. The deal, valued at approximately $793 million, could see Turkey acquiring six Airbus A400M military transport jets from Spain in exchange for 24 Turkey’s domestically produced Hürjet training aircraft.
This negotiation bears similarities to Spain’s previous attempts to offload its A400M aircraft. In 2019, Spain approached South Korea with a proposal to swap some of its A400Ms for KT-1 and T-50 trainer jets produced by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). That deal, which didn’t materialize, would have marked South Korea’s first aircraft export to Europe. However, KAI later found success in exporting the T-50 derived FA-50 to Poland.
Spain’s current negotiations with Türkiye stem from its desire to reduce its A400M fleet. While Spain initially ordered 27 A400Ms from Airbus, it has been seeking to divest 13 of these aircraft, having received consent from Airbus for the reduction.
Turkey, which already operates 10 A400M jets, has found these aircraft invaluable for both military operations and humanitarian missions, including disaster relief efforts. The A400M, designed to replace older transport aircraft like the Transall C-160 and Lockheed C-130 Hercules, offers superior capabilities in heavy lifting and can operate on rough landing strips.
The Turkish-made Hürjet, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), is set for delivery to the Turkish military next year. As a light attack aircraft, it can carry nine types of domestically developed munitions and perform roles including combat readiness transition training, air patrol, and aerobatic demonstrations.
The Hürjet project, initiated to replace the Turkish army’s T-38 trainers and F-5 aircraft used in aerobatic team flights, aims to produce two aircraft per month after certification is completed by the end of 2025.
It’s worth noting that South Korea, which was previously considering the A400M through the potential swap with Spain, has since ordered the Embraer C-390 to meet its requirements for new airlifters. This development underscores the competitive nature of the military aircraft market and the various options available to countries seeking to upgrade their air transport capabilities.
While the deal between Turkey and Spain has not been finalized, both countries are reportedly eager to complete the transaction at the highest level of intergovernmental talks. This potential swap underscores the growing importance of defense cooperation and the increasing role of Turkey’s domestic defense industry in the international market.
If successful, this deal could mark a significant step in strengthening military ties between Turkey and Spain, while also showcasing the capabilities of their respective aerospace industries. It also highlights the ongoing efforts of nations to optimize their military fleets through creative international agreements.
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