KAAN’s National Engine TF35000: A Holistic Approach from Design to Testing

The development of Turkey’s national jet engine represents more than just technological achievement—it’s a matter of strategic independence. TRMOTOR, the company behind the TF35000 engine for the KAAN fighter jet, is building a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from conceptual design to rigorous testing protocols.

Beyond the Engine: A Systems Integration Approach

TRMOTOR’s philosophy centers on understanding that engine power isn’t just about output—it’s about integrating every subsystem with precision. The company continuously develops expertise in critical areas including:

• Electrical and control systems
• Lubrication systems
• Fuel management
• Ignition systems
• Activation mechanisms
• Pneumatic systems
• Gearbox technology

Operating under the motto “Power Starts With Us,” TRMOTOR defines power not merely as an output metric, but as the result of proper architecture, data management, and quality assurance at every development stage.

Building National Test Infrastructure

TRMOTOR is strengthening Turkey’s national testing capabilities through test and validation ecosystems established in Ankara, Eskişehir, and Kocaeli. The company emphasizes university-industry collaboration, partnering with:

Gebze Technical University: Home to the Subsystems Excellence Center for specialized component testing

Middle East Technical University (METU): Features newly completed combustion and flow laboratories

ALSO READ THIS: Turkiye and Qatar Sign Agreement For Local Production Of UAVs

These facilities support a wide range of testing activities, from combustion and flow studies to compressor testing, combustion chamber validation, APU assembly and instrumentation, and system-level testing of gearboxes, lubrication, fuel, and activation systems. This comprehensive testing infrastructure aims to enhance product reliability while accelerating development cycles.

Quality Management: The Foundation of Trust

TRMOTOR’s quality policy prioritizes stakeholder satisfaction through compliance with relevant standards in the design, development, and integration of aircraft propulsion and power systems. The company maintains adherence to applicable regulations while focusing on continuous improvement.

This approach is supported by a quality management system aligned with EN 9100:2018, AS 9100D, JISQ 9100:2016, and ISO 9001:2015 standards, ensuring processes remain transparent, measurable, traceable, and improvable.

A Matter of National Security

Prof. Dr. Osman Saim Dinç, General Manager of TRMOTOR, emphasizes the strategic importance of indigenous engine technology:

“Engine technologies today represent not just an engineering calculation of performance, but the intersection of independence, sustainability, and supply security. We evaluate national engine programs as matters of national security. This highlights the strategic importance of building our own capabilities in propulsion and power systems. Through these projects, Turkey will acquire catalytic capabilities in aviation engine technologies. With this awareness, we continue our work as original power in engineering, with a sense of responsibility contributing to Turkey’s independent defense industry, focusing on interdisciplinary technology.”

The Path Forward

The TF35000 project represents Turkey’s commitment to technological sovereignty in defense. By developing comprehensive testing infrastructure, maintaining rigorous quality standards, and fostering university-industry partnerships, TRMOTOR is building not just an engine, but an entire ecosystem of aerospace propulsion expertise.

As the company continues its journey from conceptual design through prototype manufacturing to final product testing, it’s creating a sustainable foundation for Turkey’s future in advanced engine technologies ensuring that national security and technological independence go hand in hand.

Catch all the latest defense news from around the world—join us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram & TikTok.