In a landmark agreement that underscores its growing prowess in the global aerospace sector, Turkey has secured a major defence export contract with Spain. The deal, valued at approximately 2.6 billion euros, involves the sale of Turkish-made HURJET training aircraft to the Spanish Air Force.
A Pioneering Role in Defence and Aviation
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially welcomed the agreement on Saturday, hailing it as concrete proof of Turkey's "pioneering role" in the defence and aviation industry. Speaking at an event in Istanbul, Erdogan stated that Turkey has evolved into a globally recognised player in these critical sectors. "Most recently, the agreement we concluded with Spain has confirmed our country's pioneering role in this field," the President remarked.
He emphasised the strategic significance of having the HURJET aircraft included in the inventory of a nation that is a member of both the European Union and NATO. Erdogan believes this will significantly expand Turkey's opportunities in the international defence market in the coming years.
More Than Just an Aircraft Sale
The head of Turkey's defence industry agency, Haluk Gorgun, provided deeper insights into the agreement earlier in the week. He clarified that this is far from a simple transaction for training planes. "This is not merely a training aircraft deal," Gorgun explained. "It is a comprehensive package that includes ground systems, simulation systems, maintenance and sustainment services, as well as a cooperation model."
This comprehensive approach highlights the deepening of defence industry and high-technology collaboration between Turkey and Spain. Gorgun also noted that the aircraft's configuration would be progressively updated to meet Spain's specific operational needs, indicating a long-term, adaptive partnership.
A 40-Fold Surge in Defence Exports
This deal with Spain is a capstone achievement in Turkey's remarkable journey of expanding its defence exports. President Erdogan provided striking figures to illustrate this growth. He revealed that Turkey's defence exports, which stood at a modest $248 million in 2002, have skyrocketed by nearly 40 times to reach an impressive $9.8 billion in 2025.
This explosive growth has been driven by advanced platforms, including combat drones that have been sold to numerous countries worldwide. The Spanish contract for 30 HURJET aircraft represents a strategic entry into a new and competitive market segment, further diversifying Turkey's defence export portfolio.
The agreement not only brings substantial economic benefits but also serves as a powerful endorsement of Turkish engineering and manufacturing capabilities on the world stage, setting the scene for future collaborations.
