Turkey intends to build 300 5th generation KAAN fighters, and Ukraine wants to buy some of them

The CEO of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), Mehmet Demiroglu, said that they plan to produce about 300 5th generation KAAN fighters.

Here's What We Know

According to him, Turkey plans to produce more than 100 KAAN aircraft for its own Air Force, and also expects a significant volume of export orders, which could reach up to 250-300 units.

In this context, the strategic partnership between Turkey and its allies, including Azerbaijan and Pakistan, is noteworthy. They are already considering the possibility of cooperation, which means that the countries may receive full-fledged 5th generation fighters.

"In addition, we aim to supply at least the same number, if not more, to our friendly and allied countries, approximately about 150 units," explained TAI's CEO.

Thus, the company expects to receive orders for about 250-300 fighter jets, Demiroglu concluded. However, of course, these are preliminary plans.

In May 2024, Turkey's promising KAAN fighter jet made its second flight, and at the time, former TAI CEO Temel Kotil said that their aircraft "will be better than the fifth-generation F-35 fighter jet in the US".

It is also worth noting that Ukraine is among the potential customers, having previously expressed interest in KAAN aircraft. In February of this year, Ukraine's Ambassador to Turkey Vasyl Bodnar said that Ukraine "will not only buy, but also use" Turkish KAAN fighters. According to him, "Ukrainian teams are also working and competing for the KAAN project" to win a contract for the production of engines.

Flashback

KAAN is a 5th generation Turkish fighter jet developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries. The first flight took place in 2023. The fighter has a stealthy design that ensures low radar visibility. It is equipped with modern avionics, radars with an active phased array (AESA) and an advanced weapons system. The KAAN is capable of performing multifunctional missions, including air combat, ground attack and reconnaissance. Its main characteristics are high manoeuvrability, extended range and the ability to operate in electronic warfare.

Source: gdh defence