HAVELSAN HÜRKUŞ Simulator: A National Cockpit for Basic Training
How are HÜRKUŞ pilots trained? The simulators for HÜRKUŞ, Turkey’s indigenous basic training aircraft, are developed by HAVELSAN. The aircraft itself is produced by TUSAŞ; HAVELSAN provides the full-mission simulator where pilots train before sitting in a real cockpit. This article covers the HÜRKUŞ simulator in an official frame.
On simulators, see our articles on the FFS vs FTD difference and the 12 civil simulators for Turkish Airlines.
HÜRKUŞ and its place in basic training
HÜRKUŞ is the indigenous basic training aircraft replacing the KT-1T long used by the Turkish Air Force. Basic flight training is the stage where a cadet gains their first flying skills; running this stage with a domestic platform and simulator means the training chain becomes national from its very start.
What does the simulator provide?
The HÜRKUŞ simulator gives the pilot a realistic flying experience on the ground, so training can be conducted safely and cost-effectively. Before sitting in a real cockpit, the pilot can experience the aircraft’s characteristic features, emergency procedures and mission tactics under the same physical conditions.
Why domestic software matters
Because both the aircraft and the simulator software are produced domestically, risks from embargoes or restrictions are eliminated, and data on the training process stays secure. This is not only a technical but a strategic gain in independence.
The whole training chain
For years the Air Force used the KT-1T for basic training, the T-38M for jet training and the F-16 for combat flight training. HAVELSAN raised the training standard with high-fidelity simulators developed for these aircraft. Today, by developing simulators for HÜRKUŞ (basic), HÜRJET (jet) and KAAN, it is moving toward localising the entire training chain.
The HÜRKUŞ simulator at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Platform | HÜRKUŞ (indigenous basic trainer, TUSAŞ) |
| Simulator developer | HAVELSAN |
| Replaces | KT-1T |
| Purpose | Safe, cost-effective basic flight training |
| Strategic value | Domestic software → embargo immunity, data security |
Frequently asked questions
Who produces the HÜRKUŞ simulator?
The aircraft is produced by TUSAŞ and the simulator is developed by HAVELSAN.
Which aircraft did HÜRKUŞ replace?
It replaced the KT-1T, long used in basic flight training.
Why does domestic software matter?
It removes embargo and restriction risks and keeps training data secure.
Sources
- HAVELSAN, training services and full flight simulators — havelsan.com
- TUSAŞ, HÜRKUŞ — tusas.com
