The Turkish Air Force has marked a significant milestone in pilot training, as its domestically developed CN-235 Full Flight Simulator has surpassed 40,000 hours of use. Designed and produced by HAVELSAN with fully indigenous resources, the simulator provides pilots with training environments that closely replicate real flight conditions, significantly boosting operational readiness. Since entering service in 2006, the system has delivered thousands of hours of advanced training for Turkish pilots.

The CN-235 simulator replicates the aircraft’s technical features in full detail and incorporates 3D mapping to create highly realistic training scenarios. This allows pilots to practice handling diverse weather conditions and emergency situations without the risks associated with live flight. Such training not only enhances flight safety but also reduces costs by cutting fuel consumption and minimizing aircraft wear and tear.

According to Colonel Yıldırım, the system has reduced traditional training processes by 50% while simultaneously improving overall training quality. Operating on an intensive schedule of 12 hours per day, the simulator directly supports six squadrons and benefits a total of eleven, making it a vital asset for strengthening the Air Force’s operational capabilities.

Beyond Türkiye, the simulator has also gained recognition on the international stage. HAVELSAN’s CN-235 system provides training support to eight other countries, underscoring its growing role in global defense training and simulation. This achievement highlights Türkiye’s ability not only to meet its own military training needs but also to contribute to the capabilities of allied and partner nations.