Turkey and Spain Finalize Historic Defense Deal for Hürjet Aircraft

On December 30, 2025, Turkey and Spain signed a significant defense agreement valued at 2.6 billion euros ($3.06 billion) for the procurement of 30 units of Turkey's Hürjet light training jet. This marks the first international sale of the Hürjet, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2028 and continue until 2036, as part of a broader strategy to enhance defense cooperation between the two NATO allies.

ReutersSpain signs 2.6 bln euro deal for Türkiye's Hürjet aircraftSpain finalizes over $3B deal to buy Turkish advanced jet trainersForbes: Turkey's Eurofighter Deal Driven More by Greek Air Force Upgrades Than Russian Threat

The Hürjet is designed as a modern jet trainer and light combat aircraft, featuring advanced avionics and a payload capacity of 3,400 kilograms (7,500 pounds). It is 13.6 meters long with a wingspan of 9.5 meters and can reach a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet, achieving speeds of up to Mach 1.4. The aircraft aims to replace older models like the T-38 and F-5 currently used by the Turkish Air Force. Haluk Görgün, chairman of Turkey's Presidency of Defense Industries, emphasized that this deal represents a "high-value-added and multi-dimensional defense industry export package."

Spain finalizes over $3B deal to buy Turkish advanced jet trainersReutersSpain signs 2.6 bln euro deal for Türkiye's Hürjet aircraftForbes: Turkey's Eurofighter Deal Driven More by Greek Air Force Upgrades Than Russian ThreatThe Defense Post

The agreement not only signifies Turkey's growing capabilities in defense manufacturing but also reflects Spain's commitment to modernizing its military training infrastructure. The deal includes an integrated training architecture, ground-based simulation systems, and long-term operational support, which are crucial for advanced pilot training. This collaboration is expected to bolster Turkey's position in the global defense market and reduce its reliance on foreign defense systems, which has decreased from 80% to below 20% over the past two decades.

Spain finalizes over $3B deal to buy Turkish advanced jet trainers

While the deal has been hailed as a milestone for Turkey's defense industry, it has also drawn scrutiny. Critics argue that the sale of military equipment to Turkey could exacerbate tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean, particularly given Turkey's contentious relationships with neighboring countries like Greece and Cyprus. The potential for increased military capabilities in the region raises concerns about an arms race and regional stability.

The Defense Post

Haluk Görgün stated, "With Hürjet, our country has attained a structure that produces and exports high technology and has a voice in the global market in the field of air platforms." He further noted that the entry of Hürjet into the inventory of a NATO member country underscores the advancements made by Turkey's defense industry.

Spain signs 2.6 bln euro deal for Türkiye's Hürjet aircraft

The Hürjet deal is part of Turkey's broader strategy to enhance its defense exports, which have reportedly risen by 30% year-over-year, with expectations to exceed $8 billion by the end of 2025. As Turkey continues to develop its indigenous defense capabilities, future collaborations with other NATO allies may emerge, further shaping the landscape of international defense partnerships.

Reuters

• “This agreement is a high-value-added and multi-dimensional defence industry export package,” — Haluk Görgün, Chairman of Turkey's Presidency of Defense Industries

Reuters

• “With Hürjet, our country has attained a structure that produces and exports high technology and has a voice in the global market in the field of air platforms, while our defense industry exports are being carried to a new threshold in terms of both quality and scale,” — Haluk Görgün, Chairman of Turkey's Presidency of Defense Industries

Spain finalizes over $3B deal to buy Turkish advanced jet trainers