Advancements in Turkey's National Combat Aircraft Program
Turkey has marked a significant milestone in its defense industry with the unveiling of new prototypes for the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet on Friday, February 13, 2026. The event, attended by Defense Industries President Haluk Gorgun, showcased a full-scale static test aircraft, the first flight prototype (P0), and a second prototype (P1) currently preparing for its maiden flight. This simultaneous presentation highlights the parallel progression of flight testing, structural validation, and production preparation activities for the advanced combat aircraft.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the KAAN project, previously known as TF-X, aims to replace the Turkish Air Force's aging fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons and significantly reduce the nation's reliance on foreign defense imports.
Key Milestones and Technical Specifications
The KAAN program has seen rapid development since its inception. The first prototype (P0) successfully completed its maiden flight on February 21, 2024, taking off from Mürted Airfield Command near Ankara. During this 13-minute flight, the jet reached an altitude of 8,000 feet and a speed of 230 knots. A second flight was conducted on May 6, 2024, reaching 10,000 feet.
The KAAN is designed as a stealth, twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter, incorporating advanced features such as:
- Low observability and radar-absorbing materials
- Internal weapon bays
- Advanced avionics architecture and sensor fusion
- Supercruise capability (sustained supersonic flight without afterburners)
- Network-enabled operations
Preliminary specifications indicate a length of approximately 20.3 to 21 meters, a wingspan of 13.4 to 14 meters, and a maximum takeoff weight of around 34,750 kg. Initial prototypes are powered by two General Electric F110-GE-129 turbofan engines, with plans to integrate a domestically produced engine, the TF35000, after 2030.
Strategic Importance and Future Outlook
Defense Industries President Haluk Gorgun emphasized that KAAN is more than just an aircraft; it is 'a symbol of Türkiye's engineering prowess and independent defense capabilities.' The project is central to Turkey's long-term strategic vision and its goal of achieving self-sufficiency in high-technology defense platforms.
The second prototype (P1) is anticipated to conduct its first flight by May or June 2026, with a third prototype (P2) also under construction. The Turkish Ministry of Defense aims to deliver an initial batch of 20 Block 10 KAAN fighters to the Turkish Air Force between 2028 and 2029, with broader integration and mass production planned for the 2030s.
The KAAN program has also garnered international interest. Indonesia has become the first confirmed export customer, signing a deal for 48 aircraft. Other nations, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, have expressed interest, and Egypt announced its participation in the program in July 2025.
0 Comments