On July 24, 2025, at the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), Türkiye made a pivotal announcement in its defense and aviation strategy: a new production contract for 57 additional T625 Gökbey general-purpose helicopters, to be powered exclusively by the indigenous TEI-TS1400 turboshaft engine. Signed between the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB) and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), this agreement marks a significant move toward strategic autonomy in aerospace manufacturing and emergency services capability.
Türkiye’s Drive Toward Aerospace Independence
This new procurement aligns with Türkiye’s long-term national policy of reducing foreign dependency in critical military and civilian technologies. The T625 Gökbey, already introduced into service in limited numbers, now becomes the flagship of the country’s commitment to self-reliant aviation platforms. Deliveries under this new contract are scheduled to begin in 2028, solidifying TUSAŞ’s production roadmap for the next decade.
The announcement builds upon previous deliveries to key Turkish institutions such as the Gendarmerie General Command, and extends the Gökbey’s operational scope to encompass defense, civil aviation, emergency medical services, and law enforcement. The platform’s modular design and advanced avionics make it particularly suitable for Turkey’s geographically and climatically diverse terrain.
Origins and Evolution of the Gökbey Program
The T625 Gökbey project was initiated in 2010 and formally launched in 2013 under the Turkish Light Class Utility Helicopter (TLUH) Program. Its core objective was to produce a six-ton class multirole helicopter that could fulfill both military and civilian roles under a wide range of operational conditions. Designed for high-altitude, high-temperature, and all-weather operations, the Gökbey had its maiden flight on September 6, 2018, and began service deliveries in October 2024.
Among the Gökbey’s structural contributors, Alp Aviation provided the landing gear and dynamic components, while CESA, a Spanish aerospace firm, supplied the hydraulic systems. Although initial flight testing was conducted using LHTEC CTS800-4A engines, the transition to a fully domestic propulsion system began in earnest in 2023.
TEI-TS1400: Türkiye’s Indigenous Turboshaft Engine
A cornerstone of this national program is the TEI-TS1400 turboshaft engine, developed by TUSAŞ Engine Industries (TEI) under the Turboshaft Engine Development Project (TMGP), launched in March 2017. Officially unveiled in December 2020, the TS1400 is a powerful and efficient propulsion system specifically designed for rotary-wing platforms.
The TS1400 delivers 1,400 shp during takeoff, with a surge capacity of 1,660 shp for 30-second emergency use, particularly under one-engine-out scenarios. It integrates a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, reaches an output shaft speed of 23,000 rpm, and maintains operational integrity up to a 20,000-foot service ceiling.
Over 600 qualification tests have validated the engine’s performance, including cold-weather operations in Kiruna, Sweden, at -30°C. Engine control software and hardware meet DO-178C and DO-254 DAL-A certification standards, underscoring its compliance with international aviation safety protocols.
Gökbey’s Advanced Design and Performance Metrics
The Gökbey helicopter demonstrates exceptional versatility and operational efficiency. It supports a maximum takeoff weight of 6,050 kg, accommodating 12 passengers plus two crew. With a top speed of 306 km/h and an effective range of 740 km (extendable to 948 km with auxiliary tanks), it can remain airborne for 3.8 hours, or over 5 hours with external fuel support.
Its design includes a 1.1 m³ cargo compartment, retractable landing gear, and a five-blade main rotor with elastomeric bearings to minimize vibration. The three-stage main gearbox can operate for 30 minutes without lubrication, meeting stringent safety standards. The Gökbey’s service ceiling stands at 6,096 meters, and all aspects of its engineering comply with Turkish and international certification benchmarks.
Cutting-Edge Avionics by Aselsan
Integrated by Aselsan, one of Türkiye’s premier defense electronics companies, the avionics suite is built around the Modular Avionics Touchscreen Environment (MATE). This digital glass cockpit comprises:
- Two 8×20 inch integrated mission displays
- Two 8×10 inch touchscreen data entry panels
- Performance-based navigation compatible with RNP 0.3
- HTWAS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System)
These systems enable single-pilot operation under both IFR and VFR conditions, including night flights and known icing environments. Notably, the helicopter’s avionics are compliant with EASA standards, positioning it well for future export prospects.
Domestic Integration and Production Capabilities
The T625 platform has been officially certified for civil production following the Production Organisation Approval (POA) by the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation on December 30, 2024. This milestone followed rigorous audits conducted between 2021 and 2024, ensuring Gökbey’s readiness for deployment across both military and civilian sectors.
In 2025, the Ministry of Defense confirmed that 20 helicopters will be delivered by end of 2026, distributed as follows:
- 7 for the Turkish Land Forces
- 4 for the Air Force
- 3 for the Gendarmerie
- 3 for the Coast Guard
- 3 for the General Directorate of Security
Additionally, the Ministry of Health will receive 3 air ambulance variants. Within the new batch of 57 helicopters, 6 units are designated for the Coast Guard, emphasizing maritime and coastal operational requirements.
TUSAŞ targets a production capacity of four helicopters per month, supported by an integrated logistics and maintenance system that enhances operational readiness while reducing lifecycle costs.
Export Ambitions and International Performance
TUSAŞ has announced its intent to export up to 400 Gökbey helicopters by 2026, eyeing markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. With full national control over both the airframe and powerplant, the Gökbey represents a strategically unencumbered platform, free from the export restrictions tied to foreign technologies.
In February 2025, the helicopter successfully completed its cold-weather testing in Sweden, proving its performance in sub-zero climates through 60 hours of flight tests. Later in May 2025, it performed its first overseas flight during Teknofest in Northern Cyprus, showcasing its range and international operational credentials.
A Symbol of Technological Sovereignty
The Gökbey program is more than an aircraft—it is a national symbol of technological sovereignty, combining indigenous design, advanced engineering, and mission adaptability. Following the success of Türkiye’s T129 ATAK helicopter and participation in AW139 fuselage manufacturing, the T625 Gökbey is a clear demonstration of Türkiye’s growing expertise in rotorcraft development.
Looking ahead, the program serves as a foundation for future developments, including larger 10-ton utility and next-generation attack helicopters. As TUSAŞ and its partners continue expanding their research, production, and certification capabilities, the Gökbey remains a central figure in Türkiye’s ambition to become an aerospace power house, capable of competing on the global stage without technological constraints or dependency.
