Republic’s Gökbey Power
President Erdoğan addressed the delivery ceremony of the Gökbey helicopter to the gendarmerie at the TUSAŞ facilities, which were targeted by a PKK attack, saying, “For centuries to come, 85 million of us will live side by side in peace and harmony on this land with unity, solidarity, and brotherhood. Until we realize our dream of a fully independent Turkey in the defense industry, there is no stopping, resting, or catching our breath. Despite traitors and imperialists, we will work harder and produce more.”
President Erdoğan’s Speech
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, speaking at the T625 Gökbey Helicopter Delivery Ceremony at the TUSAŞ Headquarters on October 29 Republic Day, emphasized the ongoing fight against terrorism until our goal of a country free from terrorism is achieved. He described the attack on TUSAŞ as the last gasp of the separatist terrorist organization, affirming that there is no place for terrorism in the future of our country. He praised the resilience of TUSAŞ employees in the face of such threats.
Erdoğan reiterated the importance of unity, solidarity, and brotherhood among the 85 million people in the country, emphasizing the need to continue working towards a peaceful and harmonious coexistence for generations to come. He highlighted Turkey’s progress in the defense industry, increasing the localization rate from 20% to over 80% and becoming a major contributor to the economy. Erdoğan also mentioned Turkey’s leading position in the UAV market, emphasizing the country’s self-sufficiency in defense production.
Future Plans and Innovations
Erdoğan outlined plans to strengthen Turkey’s layered air defense systems, including the development of the “Steel Dome” to counter various threats, as well as enhancing long-range missile capabilities. He emphasized the country’s commitment to addressing threats both within and beyond its borders, stating that no one can prevent Turkey from eliminating any threat to its security. Erdoğan also expressed the government’s determination to eradicate terrorism at its source.
The President paid tribute to engineer Zahide Güçlü Ekici, a TUSAŞ martyr who worked as the lead engineer on the project from 2021 onwards. He pledged to honor Zahide and other martyrs by delivering the Gökbey helicopter to the gendarmerie. The delivery of 20 Gökbey helicopters is scheduled for 2026.
Erdoğan personally signed the body of the Gökbey helicopter, including Zahide’s name as a mark of respect for her contribution to the project.
Technical Specifications of Gökbey Helicopter
The T-625 Gökbey helicopter, manufactured at the TUSAŞ facilities, features a domestically produced TS1400 engine. With its first full-fledged flight in June 2019, the T-625 is capable of operating in the most challenging climates and terrains, conducting night and day flights. The T-625 helicopters will replace the U.S.-made UH-1 helicopters in the inventory.
Technical Specifications:
– Crew: 2
– Passenger capacity: 12 people
– Length: 15.87 meters (52.1 ft)
– Main rotor diameter: 13.20 meters (43.3 ft)
– Maximum takeoff weight: 6,050 kilograms (13,340 lb)
– Engines: 2 X TEI TS1400 Turbo shaft, 1,400 horsepower (1,044 kW) each
– Standard fuel tank: 1,020 kilograms (2,250 lb)
– External fuel tank: 280 kilograms (620 lb)
– Cargo volume: 1.1 cubic meters (39 cu ft)
– Maximum cruise speed: 165 knots (305 km/h)
– Cruise speed: 150 knots (280 km/h)
– Range: 403 nautical miles (740 km) – With external fuel tank: 512 nautical miles (948 km)
– Endurance: 3.6 hours – With external fuel tank: 5+ hours
– Maximum altitude: 20,000 feet (6,100 m)
In conclusion, President Erdoğan’s speech at the Gökbey helicopter delivery ceremony showcased Turkey’s commitment to advancing its defense industry and eradicating terrorism. The technical specifications of the Gökbey highlight the country’s progress in producing advanced and domestically developed military equipment. Turkey’s efforts towards self-sufficiency in defense production and enhancing its national security capabilities were evident throughout the event. The Gökbey helicopter symbolizes Turkey’s determination to protect its borders and ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
