#SaudiArabia
#Turkey : The second batch of military trainees graduated on new systems, including the "Thunder" drone at the Chorlu Training and Testing Center, under the efforts to enhance readiness and develop capabilities in unmanned systems.
- Nature of training and tasks entrusted to Saudi cadres:
1- Operational and technical training: The course included pilot qualification for drone control and control via ground guidance stations, in addition to training officers and technicians on complex maintenance and logistics support operations.
2- Advanced systems management: The cadres were trained to handle the unique technologies of "Aqangi", such as active electronic warfare radars (AESA), electronic warfare systems, and how to launch smart munitions and cruise missiles.
Technological localization: The role of these pilots and technicians is not limited to operation only; this step is a preparation for transferring technology and manufacturing within the Kingdom in cooperation with the Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company (SAMI).
Here are the full and detailed details about the weapons, and the local manufacturing plan:
• The types of weapons and missiles that the Saudi pilots are trained on are characterized by training on guiding a large payload of munitions up to 1500 kilograms, and the training program for the Saudi cadres included working with an advanced package of smart munitions and guided missiles:
- Small-sized smart munitions and smart positions: The MAM (MAM-L, MAM-C, and MAM-T) family of high-precision and specialized munitions for hitting moving targets and armor.
- Cruise missiles guided and supersonic: training on integrating tactical cruise missiles such as ÇAKIR and hypersonic missiles such as İHA-230 and İHA-122.
- Unguided dropping bombs: training on handling bombs equipped with wing guidance and laser guidance systems such as TOLUN and KGK-82 to destroy targets and fixed points from safe distances.
- Autonomy and obstacle systems: the training includes activating the integrated munitions with optical surveillance systems and guidance systems specifically designed to suit the needs of the Saudi Air Force.
* Details of the local manufacturing plan and technology transfer (settlement) represent this deal jumping from the "direct purchase" stage to joint production and technology localization.
Targeted settlement rate: The Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) announced that up to 100% of the production of all Turkish aircraft designated for service in the Kingdom will be manufactured locally within Saudi Arabia.
Parties of the agreement: The Saudi authorities represented by SAMI and the National Mechanical Systems Company (NCMS) have signed strategic settlement agreements with leading Turkish defense companies: Baykar (for aircraft), Aselsan (for electronic and visual systems), and Roketsan (for munitions and missiles).
What will be manufactured locally: The agreement includes building facilities and plants within the Kingdom to produce and manufacture aircraft, manufacture electrical systems, manufacture ground control stations, in addition to transferring full knowledge of integration, inspection and operation, and comprehensive maintenance.
The strategic deal: The Kingdom has acquired 50% ownership of the main Turkish companies: Baykar (for drones), Aselsan (for electronic and optical systems), and Roketsan (for ammunition and missiles).
This deal is classified as the largest single deal in Turkey's history.
