Microtecnica, the aerospace equipment specialist, has been selected by Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc (TAI) to supply the environmental control system for Turkey's new two-seat trainer aircraft, the Hurkus.

The Hurkus will be the first trainer aircraft designed and built in Turkey. Although primarily for use by the Turkish Air Force, the Hurkus will also be marketed worldwide as a civil and military aircraft suitable for both civilian and military flight training.

Microtecnica's work involves designing and manufacturing a complete environmental control system for the new aircraft. The system will use energy-saving technology by taking advantage of bleed air from the Hurkus' turboprop engine to pressurise, ventilate and heat the cabin, while a separate vapour cycle compressor will provide sufficient cooling to the aircraft as required.

Commenting on the contract win, Chief Executive of Microtecnica Alan Bean said: "The Hurkus is a landmark project for the Turkish Air Force and one that we are extremely proud to be involved in. The award of the contract to handle the development of the entire environmental control system is a testament to Microtecnica's experience in developing such flight-critical components."

The design of the environmental control system will be fully certifiable by the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Microtecnica's work in producing a prototype is expected to be completed in Autumn 2010, with delivery of the first Hurkus aircraft expected in 2011.