TF-X fighter prototype moves to final assembly but still no final decision on jet engine
Development of its own fifth-generation fighter jet has become even more important to Turkey following cancellation of its F-35A order. (Photo: Turkish Aerospace via Twitter)
The prototype of the Turkish fifth-generation fighter jet TF-X is set to fly by 2025, but there are challenges Ankara needs to overcome before production can take off at scale.
Turkish Aerospace (TUSAS) has moved the prototype of its TF-X indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet to the final assembly line.
A video released on 23 November showed the initial prototype of the TF-X, also known as Milli Muharip Ucak (MMU or National Combat Aircraft).
The video shows that the aircraft’s fuselage and wings have largely been assembled, but numerous other elements are yet to be installed.
‘In line with our 2023 goals, we will complete the assembly of our National Combat Aircraft and take it out of the hangar,’ said the president of the Turkish Defence Industry Agency (SSB), Ismail Demir in
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Attack drones versus CUAS – the future of warfare or just another trend?]()
Attack drones versus CUAS – the future of warfare or just another trend?
Demand signals for counter-drone technology are strong and the market is becoming crowded, but is this really the beginning of a new phase of warfare or will commentators be talking about something else 10 years from now?
-
![The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth]()
The 2020s: a decade of UAV spending growth
Total annual drone spending has increased nearly sixfold since the start of the decade, from $2.9 billion in 2020 to $16.3 billion in 2028, with Europe leading the rise.
-
![July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough]()
July drone digest: Sovereign production takes centre stage at Farnborough
Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 revealed the growing scale of the UK’s uncrewed ambitions, with companies showcasing new CCA, autonomous wingmen and surveillance drones, while sovereign production emerged as a key factor for multiple programmes.
-
![July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop]()
July air forces review: Farnborough steals the headlines as programmes develop
The biannual Farnborough International Airshow 2026 was the backdrop in July for scores of deals, partnerships and announcements, including developments in the multinational next-generation Global Combat Air Programme and the UK’s $486 million trainer aircraft requirement.
