Pakistan and Turkey are collaborating on the development of their fifth-generation fighter aircraft, TF-X, and are reportedly aiming to conduct its first flight next month.
Pakistan officially joined the stealth aircraft program with Turkish Aerospace Industries, and the TF-X has already completed its first taxiway with the maiden flight scheduled for the upcoming month.
The objective of both countries is to gradually replace their F-16s with the TF-X, with Pakistan planning to integrate the aircraft into its air force by 2030. The TF-X, a stealth aircraft, features a length of 21 meters, a wingspan of 14 meters, a takeoff weight of 27,125 kilograms, and a top speed of Mach 1.8. It has a combat range of 1,100 kilometers and a service ceiling of 55,000 feet.
The TF-X is equipped with the General Electric F110 engine, a U.S.-made component. However, as a contingency, Pakistan has also considered the UK’s Rolls Royce as an alternative engine option in case the use of the U.S.-made engine faces objections.
This development signifies a significant advancement for the Pakistan Air Force, introducing twin-engine fighter jets after a prolonged period. In addition to their collaboration on fighter jets, Pakistan and Turkey are jointly exploring the production of unmanned aerial platforms.
Approximately 200 Pakistani experts are reportedly contributing to the TF-X project, with the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park of the Pakistan Air Force playing a crucial role in the initiative.
