PPG Industries aerospace coatings have been specified by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) for the initial production of its HURKUS new-generation basic trainer for the Turkish Armed Forces, with the potential for additional aircraft if production is extended.

Fifteen aircraft will be painted with DEFT® military polyurethane topcoat and eco-friendly lead- and chromate-free epoxy primer as well as specialty coatings for specific functionality to perform in the HURKUS trainer aircraft's demanding operating environment. These include high-solids DESOTHANE® HS/CA 8100 abrasion-resistant topcoat, DESOTO® high-temperature epoxy primer and topcoat, DeSoto high-solids integral fuel tank coating, and an antistatic coating.

According to Mustafa Harman, PPG aerospace sales manager for Turkey, TAI is not only an original equipment manufacturer but also a key aviation industry subcontractor that is well acquainted with PPG's coatings as well as its sealants and transparencies. “TAI chose PPG coatings for the HURKUS trainer aircraft because its experience has demonstrated the high quality of PPG products and service,” Harman said.

Through its acquisition of Deft Incorporated, PPG extended its portfolio of military coatings to include the Deft product line.