TFX (Turkey)

|} TFX is a Fifth-generation jet fighter being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).

Conceptual design phase

On 15 December 2010, Turkey's Defence Industry Executive Committee (SSIK) decided to design, develop, and manufacture an indigenous next generation air-to-air combat fighter which would replace Turkey's F-16 fleet and work together with the F-35. Funding equivalent to US$20 million was allocated for a 2-year conceptual design phase that will be performed by TAI. TAI officials have stated that the Conceptual design phase should be complete in late 2013, with a report being prepared and served to the Prime Minister for approval of the development phase budget and framework.

TAI and Tusaş Engine Industries (TEI) will lead the design, entry and development processes of the fighter jet. TEI will focus more on the production of the airplane's engines to be completed by 2015, while TAI will develop the airframe and other components. The studies will reveal how much the fighter jet would cost, which mechanical and electronic systems would be employed and included, and a wider perspective of the opportunities and challenges in military aviation.

Partnership with Saab AB

During a State visit of the President of Turkey to Sweden on the 13th of March 2013, Türk Havacılık ve Uzay Sanayii A.Ş (Turkish Aerospace Industries, TAI) signed an Agreement with Sweden's SAAB which stipulates as follows:

• SAAB will provide technological design assistance for Turkey's TF-X program;
• TAI has the option to Purchase SAAB's Fighter Jet design unit.

Technical Features

Fuselage

Huseyin Yagci, TAI's chief engineer on the TF-X programme has stated that all three conceptual designs thus far feature a design optimised for low radar cross-sectional density, internal weapons bays, and the ability to super cruise, features associated with fifth generation fighter jets.

Radar

ASELSAN is currently developing a highly advanced AESA radar which will use gallium nitride (GaN) technology for the TFX program.

Avionics and network data links

The TF-X will be integrated from the cockpit to accompanying UAV's (most likely the TAI Anka) through encrypted datalink connections.

Engine

TAI official have reported that they hoped to acquire the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine for commonality with the F-35, however due to US export issues this may not eventuate and TAI is also simultaneously negotiating with backup suppliers. As a result of the aforementioned, TAI is looking at the General Electric F110-GE-132 that powers the Block 60 F-16. For the twin-engine versions of the TFX TAI officials are exploring the possibility of using the Eurojet’s EJ230, an up-rated version of the EJ200 that powers the Eurofighter Typhoon.

Procurement

The Turkish Air Force intends to procure 250+ TFX in 2020 and integrate them in a network-centric Air Force structure consisting of F-35, F-16 Block 50+, Future Unmanned Combat Aircraft, Airborne Stand-Off Jammers and the Boeing 737-AESA Peace Eagle AWACS.^{[citation needed]}

Program Cost and Budget

Turkish Aerospace Industries has stated that the TFX program will cost $80 billion and that this figure would be $120 billion if costs of engine development are included.

References

TX/FX
File:One of the three concept design of TFX.jpeg
One of the Three Concept Design
Role	Multirole fighter[citation needed]
Manufacturer	TAI
Introduction	Designated to be mid 2020s
Status	Under development