Mid-Thrust Turbofan Engine Family

TEI has developed two mid-thrust turbofan engines — the TF6000 (successfully tested) and the TF10000 (6,000 lbf thrust class, near completion as of early 2025) — that fill the critical gap between small UAV piston/diesel engines and the large TF35000 fighter engine. Both engines share a common core architecture, with the TF10000 adding an afterburner capability. The TF10000 is designed to power manned trainers, jet-powered UCAVs including the Kizilelma, and potentially cruise missiles.

This mid-tier engine capability is arguably more commercially important than the TF35000 fighter engine. While only a handful of countries need fifth-generation fighter engines, the market for 5,000-10,000 lbf turbofans is substantial — advanced trainer aircraft, light attack jets, unmanned combat aircraft, and cruise missiles all require engines in this thrust class. Turkish engines in this segment could power not only domestic platforms but also export aircraft and weapons systems, creating a recurring revenue stream.

TEI CEO Mahmut Faruk Aksit stated in February 2025 that the TF10000 is drawing significant interest from potential international clients even before completion. The engine development is proceeding in parallel with the TF6000, leveraging shared core technology to reduce development costs. This progressive engine development ladder — from PD170 diesel to TS1400 turboshaft to TF6000/TF10000 turbofan to TF35000 — represents a methodical capability-building approach that maximizes technology reuse across the full thrust spectrum.