The Original Helicopter Program carried out with the aim of meeting the general-purpose helicopter needs of the Turkish Armed Forces and other authorities in need with a unique platform was launched by the decision of the Defense Industry Executive Committee (SSIK) convened on June 15, 2010.
The program budget and calendar was defined by the SSIK of January 3, 2013 and a contract was signed between the SSM and Turkish Aerospace on June 26, 2013.
GÖKBEY General-Purpose Helicopter, capable of operating effectively even in the most challenging climates and geographies, at high temperatures and altitudes, in day and night conditions, is designed and manufactured using national means and capabilities. Launched based on the knowledge, experience and talent pool acquired during the ATAK Program, the Original Helicopter Program features the design and manufacture of critically important systems such as structural and avionics systems, transmission, rotor and landing gear using fully national resources.
Featuring the capability of carrying out a wide range of missions, the helicopter can carry out carriage, VIP, cargo, air ambulance, search and rescue and offshore transport missions.
The first General-Purpose Helicopter manufactured by domestic means, GÖKBEY flew for the first time with a success at 06:00 on September 6, 2018, and is projected to be serially manufactured by 2021.
The helicopter is pending for certification by EASA (European Aviation Safety Authority) and SHGM (Civil Aviation General Directorate).
GÖKBEY is designed for superior performance and quality with advanced avionics with not only today's but the future's operational requirements in mind. With a large cabin area having a high load capacity, GÖKBEY can be easily configured for various mission profiles of civilian and military users across the globe.