BAE Systems Stand Out in T-FX Programme

Turkey and BAE Systems are starting the negotiations on the pre-design phase in the Indigenous Fighter Jet Programme (T-FX). 

The Undersecretariat for Defence Industries (SSM) will start negotiations with BAE Systems in the forthcoming days and is expected to conclude negotiations in February-March 2016. If no results are achieved from the negotiations with BAE Systems, the discussions will continue either with Sweden’s SAAB or Airbus Military.

At this phase, that has lasted for 4 years, one model out of three different models designed by TAI will be selected. The studies with candidate companies on three models having different configurations are still continuing. The selection of engine and configuration is expected to be finalized in the upcoming period. 

Within the scope of the T-FX programme, the rollout of the first fighter is planned in 2023 and the maiden flight is expected to be accomplished by 2025. Following the completion of test and certification phases, the first fighter is expected to be in the inventory of the Turkish Armed Forces in the 2030s.