VIDEO: Turkish Air Force SoloTurk F-16 (Lots of air-to-air footage)

A Youtube video of the Turkish Air Force's Soloturk F-16 solo demonstration aircraft. The aircraft is specially painted to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Turkish Air Force, and will perform at various TuAF displays throughout the year.

Boeing accepts charge on new 737 AEW&C problems

Boeing's fourth quarter earnings statement includes a $136 million charge against earnings on its AEW&C programme. This marks a new setback for the deliveries of 737 airborne early warning and control system aircraft to Australia and Turkey. Boeing blames the writedown on "additional software development and testing" and "resolution of test programme issues" for the Australian and Turkish aircraft respectively.

Turkish T129 combat helicopters set to take off in April

With Turkish Aerospace Industries about to complete its assembly, the first T129 combat helicopter is scheduled to take off in April for its first flight. Turkey will eventually manufacture 50 helicopters with an option for 41 more.

Greek jets intercept Turkish jets over Aegean

The Turkish military has said that Greek Mirage 2000 and F-16s have intercepted Turkish F-16s which were on training flight over the Aegean Sea. It detailed three encounters between the two air forces, which has previously escalated into casualties on both sides in the past.

Turkey may buy 116 F-35s; build own fighter

Despite reports that Turkey's government is reviewing its JSF commitment, its Defence Minister has said that the Turkish Air Force may buy up to 116 F-35s. The NATO member is also looking to develop its own combat aircraft, either with a partner country or by itself.

Sikorsky offers local maintenance as part of Turkish helicopter deal

Stepping up the battle for Turkey's military helicopter contract, Sikorsky has offered Turkey guarantees that Turkey would be allowed repair and maintenance work for the Blackhawks of third countries if the S-70i Blackhawk is selected by Ankara.

Turkish army helicopter crashes; five killed

A Turkish Army UH-1 helicopter has crashed during a night training flight, killing five crew on board. Search-and-rescue teams found the wreckage outside a village near Ankara several hours after communications was lost. The Turkish military has launched an investigation into the accident

Turkish air force to receive first new F-16 in March

After reopening its assembly line for the type in late 2009, Turkish Aerospace Industries will deliver the Turkish air force's first new Lockheed Martin F-16 in March. TAI will eventually manufacture 30 new Block 50+ F-16C/Ds under the Peace Onyx IV program.

Turkey to field new indigenious fighter

In a development sure to disappoint the Eurofighter consortium, the Turkish air force could introduce an indigenous twin-engined fighter around 2023 to operate alongside its newer F-16s and F-35s. Meanwhile the country has deferred a decision on its utility helicopter program.

First locally-manufactured KT-1T trainer to be delivered to Turkish AF

The Turkish Air Force is slated to take delivery of its first locally-manufactured KT-1T turboprop trainer next month. The KT-1T is the Turkish version of the Korean KT-1 trainer, of which Turkey has ordered forty with an option for fifteen more.