Türkiye has reached a new milestone in its defense industry as TUSAŞ Engine Industries (TEI) begins serial production of its domestically developed PD170 military turbodiesel aviation engine. This achievement represents a historic step in expanding Türkiye’s defense exports into high-tech aviation systems.

TEI General Manager Mahmut Akşit shared details about the PD170’s development and performance. First flown in 2018 on the ANKA UAV and later tested on the AKSUNGUR UAV, the PD170 has demonstrated exceptional high-altitude performance, low fuel consumption, and reliability. The engine set records with flights above 30,000 feet, while work continues to achieve a target altitude of 45,000 feet. TEI is also advancing the 225-horsepower PD222 variant and hybrid propulsion technologies compatible with electric vehicles.

Akşit emphasized the engine’s growing international interest, revealing that TEI has already received orders from five countries, some of which have been approved. This makes the PD170 the first high-tech aviation engine Türkiye will export, marking a breakthrough in the country’s defense and aerospace industry.

The PD170’s success underscores Türkiye’s position as a rising global player in defense technology. With potential applications not only in military UAVs but also in future hybrid systems and next-generation air platforms, TEI’s innovations are expected to significantly strengthen Türkiye’s strategic capabilities in both domestic and international markets.