MADRID/ANKARA — Spain has signed a €2.6 billion (about $3 billion) defence agreement with Türkiye to acquire 30 Hürjet advanced trainer and light combat aircraft, marking the first time a major European Union and NATO member has purchased a Turkish-built military jet.
The agreement was signed at Airbus facilities in Madrid and is being described as a significant milestone for Türkiye’s defence and aerospace industry, which has expanded its exports in recent years.
Under the deal, Spain’s air force will replace its ageing F-5M trainer fleet with the Hürjet, a supersonic aircraft designed for both advanced pilot training and light combat roles. The aircraft is expected to support Spanish pilot preparation for next-generation fighter systems.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the Hürjet features modern avionics, a digital cockpit, and multi-role capability for training and limited operational missions. It first flew in 2023 and has been promoted as a cost-effective platform for modern air forces.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin between 2028 and 2029, with full operational integration expected in the early 2030s. Analysts say the deal reflects growing confidence in Türkiye’s defence sector and strengthens industrial cooperation within NATO.
