Aerospace

Meet the Turkish Newst 4 fighter aircraft, which will be available next year.

Turkish is prepared to compete with other countries in terms of defense products, which are anticipated to be released by the end of the year. These aircraft, which are designed for various purposes, will be used by the armed services. We shall investigate this airplane in this post.

Turkish Aerospace, Turkey’s largest aerospace producer, appears to be in for a spectacular day on May 1. These days, Western aerospace rarely introduces new aircraft models, but Turkish Aerospace is anticipated to publicly introduce at least three new products, including a new fighter, as well as provide information on improvements to current models.

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Erdogan’s aim to make Turkey a global defense supplier includes developing the country’s aviation sector. This program has also increased sales of the T-129 ATAK helicopter, Hurkus light attack aircraft, and armed uncrewed air systems like those made by Baykar and Anka. The initiatives restored interest in aerospace across the country, and policymakers are hoping that they will inspire younger people to pursue engineering degrees and advance the nation’s aerospace capabilities.

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TF-x:

The indigenous Turkish combat aircraft, TF-X, better known in Turkey as MMU, is arguably the most significant of the programs to be revealed. The fifth-generation twin-engine fighter prototype, which has been under development for more than a decade, began initial engine runs in March and could go to the skies later this year.

The TF-X, Turkey’s homegrown fifth-generation fighter aircraft named “KAAN” by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on May 1st in a grand celebration at TAI facilities in the Turkish capital Ankara. The single- and double-seat KAAN fighter jet is 21 meters long, has a 14-meter wingspan, and is 6 meters tall. This aircraft’s maximum takeoff weight is approximately 27,215 kg, and its two GE F110 engines have a combined thrust capacity of 76.31 kilonewtons and an afterburner thrust capacity of 131 kilonewtons. The aircraft’s top speed is 2,716 km/h, and its combat range is up to 1,100 km.

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All the technologies and characteristics seen in fifth-generation airplanes are present in KAAN. It will give the chance to strategically strike air-to-air and air-to-ground targets. Its infrastructure for safe data exchange and the use of smart weapons is entirely domestic.

Anka-3

The Anka-3, a flying-wing jet-powered unmanned combat air vehicle, is one of the several systems scheduled for introduction. Anka-3 is thought to be Turkish Aerospace’s response to rival Baykar Kizilelma’s effort to create an unmanned fighter aircraft that could replace some manned combat aircraft.

According to Turkish Vice President Fuat Oktay, the Anka-3 UCAV, which has a jet engine, is currently being developed and will be released this year. The Anka-3 UCAV sets itself apart from earlier Anka models with its flying wing design and stealth technology. The Anka-3’s first flight is expected for May 2023.

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The CEO stated that the Anka-3’s maximum takeoff weight will be 6,500 kilograms (14,330 pounds) and that it can carry 1,200 kilograms (2,646 pounds) of payload. He stated that the aircraft’s maximum altitude is 40,000 feet and that it can stay in the air for 10 hours at 30,000 feet. Its top speed is 425 knots, and its cruise speed is 250 knots.

Kızılelma:

The “Bayraktar KIZILELMA Fighter UAV”, which is being entirely developed within Turkish borders, will likely play a significant role ahead, especially in light of the possibility that unmanned technology may dominate air combat in the future.

In order to quickly transition into new technologies that the Bayraktar KIZILELMA Fighter UAV system will deploy, Baykar is making an assessment of its extensive expertise with UAVs and UCAVs. The Bayraktar KIZILELMA Fighter UAV will be a force to be reckoned with, especially given its aggressive maneuvering skills and stealthiness against radar.

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The development and manufacturing stage of the Bayraktar Kzlelma project, which has successfully created two prototypes, is presently underway. The public will be able to observe the aircraft at Atatürk Airport from April 27 to May 1 as a part of the TEKNOFEST 2023 event. By 2024, Baykar hopes to start mass-producing its indigenous unmanned warplane.

The Kızılelma has a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 6,000 kilograms (13,200 lb), with 1,500 kg of weight available for the payload. According to data shared by the company, the Kızılelma will have an operational altitude of 35,000 feet (10,670 m).

Hurjet:
Hurjet training aircraft made history on April 25 when it completed its maiden flight, marking a significant development for the country’s aerospace industry. The Turkish Air Force is anticipated to replace its American Northrop T-38 Talon trainer aircraft in its fleet with the Hurjet.

The Hurjet reached a maximum speed of 250 knots and an altitude of 14,000 feet during its 26-minute flight, according to the Turkish news website. A supersonic aircraft, it can travel at a top speed of more than 1.3 mach. It is a twin-seat trainer aircraft with a single engine that is powered by American General Electric F404 engines.

The aircraft has a contemporary glass cockpit with cutting-edge avionics and mission systems, such as a mission computer, multi-function displays, and a head-up display. Additionally, it boasts a digital flight control system that decreases pilot workload while offering greater handling and performance.

The Hurjet can fly up to 2,600 km and reach heights of 45,000 feet. It is a flexible and capable platform for a variety of tasks because of its modern weaponry, which includes air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and guided bombs.

Aerospace

India is set to build a central command for the Air Traffic Control system, called ISHAN

Coutresy : Boeing planes

India’s air traffic growth has led to increased responsibilities for air traffic control. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is considering centralizing air traffic control for aircraft, dividing the country into four regions. The goal is to consolidate India’s segmented airspace into a single entity to improve air traffic management (ATM) efficiency, safety, and smoothness.

Recently, the AAI invited expressions of interest to develop a detailed project report for the Indian Single Sky Harmonized Air Traffic Management (ISHAN) initiative in Nagpur. Under this plan, air traffic controllers in Nagpur would handle domestic flights flying above 25,000 feet, eliminating the need for coordination among controllers in different regions.

For domestic regional flights operating above 25,000 feet, control would shift to the central command in Nagpur. This consolidation aims to enhance airline operations, increase flight handling capacity, and reduce congestion and flight times for passengers.

Currently, the AAI provides ATM services over Indian airspace and adjoining oceanic areas, covering over 2.8 million square nautical miles. This airspace is divided into four flight information regions (FIRs) in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai, along with a sub-FIR in Guwahati.

FIRs are responsible for providing air traffic services, including weather information, visibility, and search and rescue assistance. The proposed unification under the ISHAN initiative aligns with the projected growth of the aviation industry, which anticipates a doubling of domestic passenger traffic by 2030.

Aerospace

Does AirAsia show interest in Comac aircraft in the future?

Courtesy : Tony Fernandes (Linked in Story)

Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, operating as AirAsia Group, recently paid a visit to the facilities of COMAC on April 2, 2024, and was thoroughly impressed by what he witnessed.

C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders

COMAC, known for its homegrown aircraft, has launched two promising jets: the ARJ21 and the C919 aircraft. Both aircraft are gaining popularity in the Chinese market, with the C919 already securing nearly 1000 orders from various airlines.

Fernandes expressed his admiration for COMAC’s achievements in aircraft manufacturing, acknowledging the immense challenge it entails. His visit underscored the realization that AirAsia now has a viable third option when it comes to selecting aircraft for its fleet.

During his tour, Fernandes was delighted by the innovation and technology evident in COMAC’s aircraft production and the company’s commitment to long-term partnerships.

He noted that many Western companies have shifted away from prioritizing loyalty and customer service, opting instead for short-term gains and a narrow definition of success.

Last month, COMAC embarked on an international tour, showcasing demonstration flights to neighboring countries, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. Fernandes believes that the positive impression left by COMAC during his visit opens up new opportunities for collaboration.

Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements

The shared values of loyalty, customer service, and long-term vision align closely with AirAsia’s ethos, making collaboration with COMAC appealing. With a focus on innovation and excellence, both companies stand to benefit from a partnership grounded in trust and a shared commitment to success.

Indonesia and China have already collaborated in validating and maintaining the airworthiness of the ARJ21 aircraft, indicating a solid foundation for future partnerships.

In his statement, Fernandes emphasized COMAC’s remarkable achievements and genuine desire for long-term partnership, highlighting the absence of ego and a genuine willingness to succeed together. He marveled at COMAC’s fully automated, AI-driven factory, a testament to their dedication to innovation and efficiency.

Fernandes criticized Western firms for prioritizing short-term gains over loyalty, customer service, and long-term strategy, emphasizing the importance of understanding customers’ needs and collaborating to achieve success.

Aerospace

Indigo will soon launch Air Taxi Service in India

Image:Archer Aviation

InterGlobe Enterprises, the parent brand of IndiGo, is set to revolutionize travel in India with its upcoming air taxi service.

Scheduled for a potential launch in 2026, this innovative venture promises a seamless journey for passengers between two bustling hubs. Delhi and Gurgaon in Haryana. The forthcoming service is projected to revolutionize the daily commute, offering passengers a swift aerial journey covering the distance in a mere 7 minutes.

This remarkable efficiency contrasts starkly with the conventional 90-minute drive, underscoring the immense time-saving potential for commuters. The anticipated fare, ranging from Rs 2,000-3,000, makes this innovative mode of transport not only swift but also remarkably competitive in pricing.

At the heart of this ambitious endeavor lies a strategic partnership with Archer Aviation, a pioneer in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft technology. Under this collaboration, Archer will supply 200 state-of-the-art eVTOL aircraft, representing an investment of US$ 1 billion. These cutting-edge aircraft, capable of accommodating up to four passengers alongside the pilot, epitomize the future of sustainable air travel.

Powered by six battery packs, Archer’s eVTOL aircraft boast rapid charging capabilities, enabling a swift turnaround between flights. With a charging time of just 30-40 minutes, these eco-friendly aircraft ensure minimal downtime, maximizing operational efficiency.

Similar services are anticipated to be introduced by the joint venture in Bengaluru and Mumbai as well. Nevertheless, the service rollout period has not yet been made public by the company. Next year, it is anticipated to get its certification. Following this, the company will start the certification procedure with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).