The high costs and bureaucratic hurdles associated with European projects are the biggest obstacles to their progress. Development processes also take too long. Furthermore, when tech share clashes among certain countries within consortia formed for joint development come into play, many strategic projects are effectively stillborn. There are examples from the past where attempts were made but failed to yield results. Rather than wasting time, we recommend taking a look at the Turkish business model and technology.
The reason is that;
While Europe’s 6th Generation MUM-T concept remains merely an idea on paper, Turkiye is currently actively flying with this capability
In addition to the MUM-T concept, Turkiye is flying an unmanned fighter aircraft capable of independently performing SEAD, DEAD, CAS, CAP, and ISR missions, and is currently working on much more advanced and powerful new versions.
Turkiye has also developed integrated EOTS and IRST systems—which, to my knowledge, only the US and China have operationalized—and flight tests are currently underway. Additionally, DIRCM and a 360° AESA radar system are planned for the KAAN. Europe has yet to produce a tangible product in this field.
While the most powerful European turbofan generates 20,000 lb of thrust, the turbofan featuring single-crystal blade and blisk technology—which Turkiye plans to conduct its first test start(ignition) of this year—is being developed to produce 36,000–37,000 lb of thrust.
In Europe, despite having far superior experience compared to Turkiye, the biggest obstacles for such programs are political will, cost, and bureaucracy. For example, the UK defense minister expressed his disappointment over the lack of an adequate defense budget a few days ago and subsequently resigned. This situation may affect the Tempest program as well.
If there is no aircraft in short and medium term, there is no need for engines either, which is why the future of the engine projects that European engine manufacturers are working on is becoming unknown (FCAS)
I believe that some European countries will set aside their prejudices and develop collaborations with Turkiye for joint development and production strategies in specific areas. These countries will be Europe’s winners in the medium and long term.
Germany and France will continue to collaborate key defense projects together, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said on Wednesday
bloomberg.com/news/articles/…