Aircraft

Turkey’s SSM defence procurement agency has launched a $400 million contest to acquire up to 55 new primary and basic trainers for the Turkish air force, writes Tolga Ozbek in Istanbul.

The SSM on 20 January issued a request for proposals to potential suppliers of a turboprop replacement for the air force’s Aermacchi SF260Ds and Cessna T-37B/Cs, the latter of which have been in service since 1963.

Bidders are required to respond by 5 May, with an aircraft selection anticipated by year-end. The SSM’s request calls for the delivery of 36 aircraft plus 19 options.

The competition is expected to be between aircraft including the Embraer EMB-314 Super Tucano, Korea Aerospace Industries KT-1, Pilatus PC-9M and Raytheon T-6A Texan II.

Ankara is looking for a 20% industrial stake in the programme for local manufacturers, including Tusas Aerospace Industries, as part of an offset package.

Turkey’s SF260s will be transferred as replacements for its air force academy’s Cessna T-41Ds.