Ankara: Hydraulic systems, often referred to as the 'heart and circulatory system' of aircraft, are being localized for Trkiye's national aviation platforms as part of the country's strategic efforts to reduce foreign dependency in defense and aerospace sectors. These crucial systems allow pilots to control heavy components such as landing gear and control surfaces with minimal input, highlighting their essential role in aviation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Trkiye has recently accelerated its localization and nationalization policies in the aviation and defense industries, marking significant progress in platform development, subsystems, engine technologies, and maintenance capabilities. Within this framework, IDAK AeroSystems, a key player in Trkiye's aviation sector, is developing hydraulic pumps, reservoirs, valves, accumulators, manifolds, and actuation systems that adhere to international aviation standards. These components are specifically tailored to meet the needs of aircraft, helicopter, and engine manufacturers.
The localization initiatives aim to strengthen resistance against embargoes and export restrictions while building domestic design, testing, and certification capabilities. This approach supports high value-added production and exports, enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to integrate into major supply chains.
Ali Emre Akgunes, General Manager of IDAK AeroSystems, emphasized the company's commitment to Trkiye's local and national aviation initiative, primarily focusing on domestic projects. He stated that as original platforms are developed in Trkiye, the demand for local aviation subsystems increases. The company designs and manufactures ATA 29 Hydraulic Power Packages, including essential components like pumps, reservoirs, actuators, and manifolds to meet this demand.
Akgunes highlighted the advanced engineering and strict qualification processes required for aviation hydraulic systems, underscoring that there is no room for chance or inexperience in this field. IDAK AeroSystems not only targets domestic needs but also aims at global markets, complying with international standards.
The company has actively contributed to localization efforts in projects such as KAAN, HURJET, HURKUS, and domestic aircraft engine programs, while also expanding its export activities. Plans are underway to establish an IDAK Hydraulic Center of Excellence to consolidate production, assembly, and testing activities, and to launch IDAK Italia to strengthen its presence in Europe.
Akgunes noted the success of their approach, stating, "Since last year, this approach has begun to yield results. Our projects, which started with a jet trainer aircraft and later expanded to fighter aircraft and a turboprop trainer, were crowned with export contracts signed in 2025." He further added that their journey, which began with equipment supply, has evolved into complete system supply.