TurDef has reported significant updates regarding Turkey’s industrial strategy for the GE Aerospace F110 engines, which are essential for the KAAN combat aircraft. The nation’s direction has evolved, prioritizing technology acquisition and industrial participation over merely obtaining licensing for production.
Shift in Industrial Focus
Previously, Turkey’s main ambition was to secure a license for TUSAŞ Engine Industries (TEI) to manufacture F110 engines in Eskişehir. However, the emphasis has now shifted toward leveraging the associated offset and industrial participation agreements to gain advanced technologies and higher-value work packages that are not readily available through existing local capabilities. This change does not rule TEI out of the F110 program, nor does it imply a definitive abandonment of local production; rather, the emphasis has moved away from licensed manufacturing as the primary objective.
The U.S. State Department officially communicated to Congress on June 24 about a substantial package exceeding $700 million. This package pertains to F110 engines and related support for the KAAN aircraft. Following a 15-day congressional review period that concluded on July 9, no legislative action was taken to halt the transaction, allowing it to proceed smoothly.
Details of the Procurement Package
The notification includes defense articles, services, and technical information required for a variety of applications, including integration, installation, external modifications, qualification, and assembly. Turkey aims to acquire around 80 engines for the flight-test and initial production phases of the KAAN project. For the time being, the F110 engines will serve as an interim solution until the domestic TF35000 turbofan engine becomes available for future production segments.
In May 2023, TEI’s then-General Manager, Mahmut Faruk Akşit, indicated that discussions were ongoing concerning Turkish production of the initial engines for the KAAN. He expressed a desire for the first aircraft to operate with engines that, while possibly not of Turkish design, would be assembled in Eskişehir. Following this, reports surfaced that Turkey was inquiring about U.S. approval for licensed production of the F110 at TEI.
Expansion of Local Capabilities
TEI already possesses considerable experience in the assembly, testing, and maintenance of the F110 engine series. The Turkish Air Force has previously ordered F110-GE-129B engines for additional F-16s, becoming a significant international customer for the F110 Service Life Extension Program. TEI’s track record includes assembling and testing hundreds of F110 engines under various programs, further establishing its capabilities.
Significant advancements have been made in engine technology, with GE Aerospace noting that 92% of F110 components have undergone some level of redesign throughout its evolution. These improvements include new materials and enhanced manufacturing processes aimed at reducing lifecycle costs while increasing overall engine performance. Integration of the F110 into KAAN’s twin-engine setup will necessitate specific control systems and interfaces, showcasing Turkey’s robust background in working with this engine family.
Future Directions for Technology and Industrial Participation
Turkey’s revised perspective focuses on attaining technological advancements as well as longer-term industrial benefits rather than solely on renewed licensed production. This strategic pivot allows for significant opportunities to tap into new technologies, rights, and international work packages, potentially paving the way for a more sustainable and impactful industrial return.
Under the guidelines of Turkey’s industrial participation and offset policy, projects are generally expected to bring an offset commitment of at least 50% of the procurement contract’s value. However, the overall value of the recently announced $700 million package encompasses not just engines but also various services and technical data. As Turkey continues to explore the best long-term strategies for its industrial capabilities, emphasis will remain on securing advancements that ensure a competitive edge in the global defense landscape.