The Turkish Defense Industry Executive Committee (SSB) announced that initial flight crew training for the T-625 GÖKBEY multi-role helicopter, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), has been successfully completed at TUSAŞ facilities. The helicopter is now preparing for induction into the Turkish Air Force Command inventory in October 2026.
Why it matters
- The GÖKBEY is a domestically developed helicopter designed for high-altitude and hot-weather operations, with plans for export to allied and friendly nations.
- It is powered by two TEI-TS1400 turboshaft engines produced by Turkish Engine Industries (TEI), featuring a 6-ton takeoff weight, 12-passenger capacity, maximum speed of 306 km/h, and over 3.8 hours of endurance.
- Following a new contract signed at IDEF 2025 between SSB and TUSAŞ for 57 additional units, total GÖKBEY orders have reached 83, with deliveries scheduled from 2028 to 2031.
The training completion marks a key milestone ahead of the helicopter’s formal induction. Prior to this, the GÖKBEY had already entered service with the Turkish Land Forces Command and participated in the EFES 2026 exercise in June. The aircraft’s design emphasizes operational readiness through optimized structural, avionics, and mechanical systems, aiming to minimize maintenance costs. Integrated Logistics Support Services from TUSAŞ will provide maintenance plans and expert personnel to enhance reliability and efficiency.
Under the IDEF 2025 agreement, the 57 newly ordered helicopters include TEI-TS1400 engine configurations and will be distributed across services: three to the Turkish Naval Forces, 15 to the General Directorate of Security, 11 to the Turkish Air Force, 14 to the Gendarmerie General Command, eight to the Turkish Land Forces, and six to the Coast Guard Command. Deliveries will include mission-specific equipment selected by end users.
For Turkey, the induction of the GÖKBEY into the Air Force inventory strengthens domestic helicopter production capabilities and reduces reliance on foreign platforms. This advancement supports national defense self-sufficiency goals while enhancing export potential to meet allied defense requirements.