Special to WorldTribune.com

ANKARA — After years of delays, Turkey has received its first U.S.-origin airborne early-warning and control aircraft.

The Turkish Air Force has taken delivery of the first of four AEW&C aircraft by Boeing as part of a $1.6 billion project.

The remaining aircraft were expected to be sent to Ankara in 2015.

“What’s more, the aircraft can be used immediately because initial training for mission system operators, maintenance crews and pilots has been completed,” Boeing program manager Mark Ellis said.

On Feb. 10, Boeing said the AEW aircraft was delivered to the Turkish Air Force base at Konya. The aircraft was based on the B-737-700, which serves as the platform for AEW systems and radars.

The AEW project has been delayed for more than five years. In late 2013, Boeing and the Turkish government reached a settlement in which the U.S. company agreed to pay nearly $600 million in compensation.

“Two more aircraft are to be delivered this year, with the fourth
in 2015,” Boeing said. “In addition to the aircraft, the Peace Eagle program
includes ground support segments for mission crew training, mission support
and system maintenance.”

The AEW project has included several major Turkish defense companies.
They were identified as the state-owned Turkish Aerospace Industries,
Havelsan and MiKES.

Officials said Turkey plans to hold an inauguration ceremony for the AEW
aircraft in Konya on Feb. 21. Boeing said the aircraft was designed to
simultaneously track airborne and maritime targets.

  AEW&C, Boeing, Peace Eagle, Turkey finally gets first early-warning aircraft from Boeing, Turkish Aerospace Industries