Türkiye’s Kaan Fighter Jet: A New Era of Defense Cooperation?
Türkiye is actively seeking international partners to share the substantial costs of developing its fifth-generation fighter jet, the Kaan. This pursuit comes as Ankara looks to solidify its position as a key player in the global defense industry. Recent statements from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan indicate a potential joint investment with Saudi Arabia in the Kaan project could materialize soon.
From F-35 Exclusion to Kaan: A Shift in Strategy
The development of the Kaan fighter jet gained momentum after Türkiye was excluded from the U.S.-led F-35 program in 2019 due to its purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system. This exclusion also resulted in sanctions from the U.S. Congress. Faced with the need for a modern fighter fleet, Türkiye accelerated its indigenous development program.
Indonesia and Beyond: Building a Network of Partners
Recognizing the high costs involved, Ankara has been proactively seeking international collaboration. In June, Indonesia signed an agreement to purchase 48 Kaan fighter jets for over $10 billion (8.5 billion euros), including co-production agreements for certain components within Indonesia. Interest has also been expressed by other nations, including Qatar and Azerbaijan.
Saudi Arabia’s Potential Investment: A Game Changer?
President Erdoğan announced on February 5, 2026, that a joint investment with Saudi Arabia in the Kaan fighter jet program could happen “at any moment.” This potential partnership signifies growing defense cooperation between the two countries, following recent visits by Erdoğan to Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The collaboration is framed within broader bilateral economic and defense relations.
Technical Challenges and Timelines
The Kaan made its first flight in February 2024, initially powered by General Electric F110-GE-129 engines, also used in Turkish F-16s. Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), leading the Kaan program, is developing an indigenous engine for the aircraft. However, the U.S. Congress reportedly blocked the delivery of F110-GE-129 engines for the initial series of Kaan jets last year.
TAI aims to deliver the first Kaan jet to the Turkish Air Force by the end of 2028. Some analysts suggest this timeline may be extended to 2030, with the delivery of the first ten Kaan Block-1 jets scheduled between 2030 and 2033.
The Importance of Engine Development
The development of a domestically produced engine is crucial for the long-term success of the Kaan program. Reliance on foreign suppliers introduces vulnerabilities and limits Türkiye’s strategic autonomy. Overcoming the challenges in engine development will be a key factor in meeting the projected delivery timelines.
Implications for the Global Defense Landscape
The Kaan program represents a significant step towards Türkiye’s goal of becoming a self-sufficient defense manufacturer. Successful development and international sales of the Kaan could reshape the regional balance of power and challenge established players in the aerospace industry.
FAQ
- What is the Kaan fighter jet? The Kaan is Türkiye’s domestically developed fifth-generation fighter jet.
- Who is interested in buying the Kaan? Indonesia has signed a deal to purchase 48 Kaan jets, and Qatar and Azerbaijan have also expressed interest.
- What role is Saudi Arabia playing? Saudi Arabia is considering a joint investment in the Kaan program.
- When will the Kaan be delivered to the Turkish Air Force? TAI aims for delivery by the end of 2028, though some analysts predict 2030.
Did you realize? Türkiye’s exclusion from the F-35 program spurred the accelerated development of the Kaan fighter jet.
Pro Tip: International collaboration is essential for managing the high costs associated with developing advanced military technology.
Stay informed about the latest developments in the defense industry. Subscribe to our weekly Defense Insider newsletter for exclusive insights and analysis.
