Turkey’s military is on track to receive its first Hurkus-C light ground attack aircraft in 2018.

That was reported by Turkish Ministery of Defence.

The Hurkus-C is an armed version of Hurkus basic trainer aircraft developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). The armed Hurkus-C variant is fitted with a more powerful 1,600 hp Pratt and Witney engine, and can carry 1.5 tonnes of payload across seven hardpoints.

The Hurkus-C will also be equipped with a tactical data-link system, electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) system, self-protection system, and an armour reinforced airframe.

As the Hurkus-C will be capable of operating from unprepared runways, it could also attract export orders, TAI believes. The Turkish Army has expressed interest in the Hurkus-C to provide support for its attack helicopters.