Defence

Turkey Scraps F-16 Upgrade Deal, Chooses Domestic Tech

In a significant shift in its defense procurement strategy, Türkiye has scaled down its $23 billion F-16 fighter jet package from the United States.

The revised deal, announced on Tuesday, excludes the purchase of 79 modernization kits for its existing fleet of F-16s. Instead, Türkiye will rely on its domestic aerospace industry to upgrade its aircraft, showcasing the growing capabilities of Turkish defense manufacturers.

According to Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, Türkiye has already made an initial payment of $1.4 billion for the procurement of 40 new F-16 Block 70 Viper jets from Lockheed Martin.

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“We opted out of buying the 79 modernization kits because our Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) are capable of conducting these upgrades independently,” Güler stated. The decision highlights Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities while still acquiring new aircraft from the U.S.

The new agreement, which includes the 40 F-16 Block 70 jets and associated ammunition, is expected to cost approximately $7 billion.

The Block 70 variant, also known as the “Viper,” features advanced technologies such as the Northrop Grumman APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar, a modernized cockpit, improved networking capabilities, a new mission computer, enhanced electronic warfare systems, and an upgraded communications suite.

However, it remains unclear which of these upgrades Turkish Aerospace Industries will undertake independently for the existing fleet. Türkiye’s original order for the F-16 jets was placed in October 2021, two years after it was removed from the fifth-generation F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.

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The exclusion followed Türkiye’s acquisition of the Russian-made S-400 missile defense system, which led to U.S. sanctions and the termination of Türkiye’s participation in the multinational F-35 project.

Despite the setback, Türkiye remains determined to rejoin the F-35 program and acquire 40 new F-35 jets.

“We insist on reclaiming our production share and maintain our request to acquire F-35s,” Güler emphasized, adding that while there are indications of willingness from the U.S. to discuss the matter, no concrete progress has been made.

Meanwhile, Türkiye continues to advance its domestic fighter jet program. The country’s fifth-generation fighter, the Kaan, completed its maiden flight in February 2024, and mass production is expected to begin by 2028.

This ambitious project underscores Türkiye’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign military technology and bolster its domestic defense industry.

Defence

Russia’s NV.17 Hybrid Helicopter Aims to Balance Light and Heavy Helicopter Needs

As Western sanctions continue to impact Russia’s aviation sector, the country is making significant strides in advancing its domestic aerospace capabilities.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Russia has unveiled the Heliburo HB.17, a cutting-edge hybrid-powered medium-class helicopter that promises to reshape both commercial and military aviation.

The helicopter is currently in the technical design phase, with plans for its first flight slated for 2027. This marks a major step forward in Russia’s efforts to modernize its aviation fleet and reduce reliance on foreign technology.

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The HB.17 is designed as a versatile, multi-role aircraft, capable of performing a wide range of functions. It is built to handle cargo transport, passenger carriage, reconnaissance, and close air support missions. With its robust design and flexible capabilities, the HB.17 is expected to meet the needs of both military and commercial operators, offering a solution for missions requiring a greater capacity than light helicopters but avoiding the limitations of larger aircraft.

One of the most innovative features of the HB.17 is its hybrid power plant. This combination of conventional and electric technologies enhances fuel efficiency, allowing the helicopter to stay airborne for up to seven hours without needing to refuel.

This extended operational endurance makes the HB.17 particularly well-suited for long-duration missions, providing a significant advantage over traditional helicopters. Additionally, the HB.17 will be equipped with modern avionics, ensuring advanced navigation, communication, and operational capabilities.

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The HB.17 is positioned to compete with other medium-class helicopters such as the Kamov Ka-60/62 and the Mil Mi-38. However, its hybrid powerplant and modern avionics set it apart, offering a more efficient and technologically advanced alternative.

Its multi-role versatility, combined with its fuel efficiency and cutting-edge systems, gives it a competitive edge in the evolving aviation landscape. The introduction of the HB.17 follows recent reports of Russia receiving a new batch of armored vehicles from the UAE-based Streit Group.

Russia has traditionally focused on producing helicopters for defense purposes, but this time, it appears to be venturing into the civilian helicopter market with the HB.17.

This, along with the ongoing development of the HB.17, reflects Russia’s continued efforts to modernize its military assets and increase its self-reliance, even as sanctions continue to pressure its defense and aerospace sectors.

As Russia faces mounting geopolitical challenges, the HB.17 stands as a symbol of resilience, technological innovation, and determination to maintain its military and aviation capabilities.