Erdogan marks the first release of HURKUS

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday attended a ceremony in Ankara marking the first release of primary and basic trainer aircraft HURKUS (Free Bird) of Turkish aviation company TUSAS from the hangar. Speaking at the ceremony, Erdogan underlined the importance of the concept of defense, saying, "We will respond to hostile attitudes against us, attacks and threats in the strongest manner, using all the power and inspiration we derive from our history. We will never avoid teaching a lesson to gang-run states that have no legitimacy in the eyes of their public, those who resort to state terrorism against their people and those who dare to test the limits of Turkey's might," Erdogan said. Erdogan also described the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) as "one of the oldest, most experienced and powerful armies," adding, "And today we get to equip this powerful army through our own technicians and engineers and with the devices these people create. Turkey is becoming a country that has more power, expertise and determination in the defense industry every single day. We, as a government, will continue having a visionary stance in the defense industry and supporting this industry with determination." The HURKUS which was manufactured by the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) can fly up to a speed of 574 km/h with a maximum stall speed of 143 km/h in landing configuration. The maximum service ceiling of the jet is 10,577 km, which can fly at 15,000 feet for a stretch of four hours and 15 minutes and has a 1,600-horsepower engine. The aircraft also has a system producing oxygen for pilots while flying.