TAI TFX

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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 13 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.

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. Turkey plans to introduce the TF-X by 2023, having it and the F-35A comprising a dual fighter jet fleet. The TF-X is to compensate for some of the F-35's weaknesses in air-to-air combat. Permission to officially start the first phase of development is expected by the end of 2014.

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.

Pressure to abandon project
Turkish media citing Turkish Defense procurement officials have stated that the US has reportedly threatened Turkey to abandon the TFX program or risk being booted out of the JSF program.