Spain has approved a €3.12 billion ($3.6 billion) contract to purchase 45 HÜRJET jet trainer and light attack aircraft developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), marking one of Turkey’s largest defense exports to a European Union member state.
The deal, endorsed by the Spanish Council of Ministers on October 28, forms part of the Integrated Training System (ITS-C) program, which aims to replace Spain’s aging F-5 (AE.09) training fleet and modernize its military pilot training infrastructure.
Spain’s ministry of defense said the ITS-C system will provide next-generation flight simulators, logistics support and a full training ecosystem designed to prepare pilots for modern combat environments. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2028, with the aircraft expected to enter service during the 2029–2030 training period and remain operational for at least 30 years.
The contract, valid until November 30, 2035, also includes extensive industrial cooperation. Airbus Defense and Space España will coordinate the program nationally, with participation from 15 Spanish aerospace firms, including Aciturri, Aernnova, Aertec, Centum, GMV and Indra. The integration aims to align the HÜRJET’s production and technology base with Spain’s domestic defense sector.
The Spanish Ministry of Industry said it will provide €1.04 billion ($1.21 billion) in credit over the first five years to support the program, which is expected to generate around 2,600 jobs, including 800 direct positions.
The HÜRJET is Turkey’s first domestically developed jet trainer — a supersonic, single-engine, two-seat aircraft designed for both advanced pilot training and light attack missions. Under development by TAI since 2017, it completed its maiden flight on April 25, 2023. The aircraft uses the GE Aerospace F404 engine, also deployed in Spain’s F/A-18 Hornet fleet, and includes a glass cockpit, fly-by-wire controls, night vision compatibility and aerial refueling capability.
Defense analysts in Spain have questioned the program’s high cost and raised concerns over technological dependence on Turkey, as the aircraft’s software and logistics chain remain under development. The Italian M-346 was reportedly the preferred option of Spain’s Air and Space Force before the defense ministry chose the Turkish bid.
If the delivery schedule stays on track, the HÜRJET is expected to become the core of Spain’s pilot training system by 2030.