Turkey's first T38 modernised jet trainer is handed over
The first prototype of TAI-modernized T38 jet trainer aircraft has been delivered to the Turkish Air Force (TurAF) following a special handover ceremony at TAI's facilities.
Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI), as a prime contractor, was awarded a contract by the Undersecretariat for Defense Industries (SSM) to design, develop and implement an avionics upgrade for the TurAF under the T-38 Avionics Modernization (ARI) Program.
In the framework of the program, a total of 55 TurAF T-38A aircraft are to be upgraded. The upgrade process of five aircraft is ongoing at TAI’s facilities whereas the remaining 50 production aircraft will be modified at TurAF 1st Air Supply and Maintenance Center with technical support of TAI.
The avionics upgrade of the first prototype of T38 trainer aircraft was successfully completed by TAI and delivered to TurAF.
Following the prototype deliveries in 2012, the last aircraft modification is planned to be completed in 2014.
The Turkish T-38, is a derivative of the Northrop T-38 Talon, the world's first supersonic trainer The twin engined T-38 is used by the USAF and by NASA. Pilots of other NATO nations also fly the T-38 in joint training programs with USAF pilots.
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