TUSAŞ Conducts Unmanned Aircraft Test

Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSAŞ) General Director Temel Kotil stated that they are conducting work on unmanned aircraft technologies alongside the National Combat Aircraft (MMU), where artificial intelligence performs as a second pilot. Kotil also shared details about projects being undertaken in the Management Development Programme (SAHA MBA), prepared by SAHA Istanbul specifically for companies operating in the defense, aviation and space sectors. Pointing out that the MMU is their most important project, Kotil stated that alongside 3,000 TUSAŞ personnel for the project, an additional 3,000 personnel from other contributing companies will be required. Explaining that fifth-generation aircraft have a single pilot while artificial intelligence performs as a second pilot, Kotil emphasized that the MMU possesses this feature, making it a "more intelligent aircraft". Kotil stated that the aircraft will start its engine in 2023, fly in 2025, and be delivered to the Air Force in 2028, saying: "When we accomplish this, what is Turkey accomplishing? We are accomplishing what the United States accomplishes."

"Kotil: We Have Helicopters and UAVs"

Kotil highlighted the global need for a low-cost civilian aircraft carrying 60 passengers. Kotil stated: "TUSAŞ is not in a position to do such a thing, because our workload is heavy enough. We are building the MMU, an aircraft between the F-22 and F-35. We are building the Hürjet, we are rebuilding the Hürkuş. We have helicopters and UAVs. Because we have this much workload, no one says 'Build a passenger aircraft,' but there is a need for such an aircraft. In Turkey and other countries, such an aircraft could make a breakthrough. A 60-passenger aircraft made of thermoplastic composite with modern engines would break into and dominate the market." Source