TAI to Deliver Türkiye’s First Indigenous Fighter Jet, KAAN, by 2030
Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) has announced its plan to deliver Türkiye’s first indigenous fighter jet, the KAAN, to the nation’s air force within the next five years. TAI CEO Mehmet Demiroglu revealed the ambitious timeline and outlined the vision for KAAN during an interview with media, coinciding with his attendance at the SAHA defence expo in Istanbul.
“KAAN is the king of the skies,” Demiroglu declared, emphasizing the jet’s advanced capabilities, which will position Türkiye among global leaders in aerospace technology. KAAN, designed as a fifth-generation fighter jet, includes stealth features and twin engines capable of producing 13,000 kilograms of thrust each, enabling the aircraft to reach speeds up to Mach 1.8.
In a strategic push toward aerospace innovation, TAI has begun work on a sixth-generation version of KAAN, which will feature integrated artificial intelligence, cutting-edge sensors, and interoperability with unmanned aerial systems. “We’re at the forefront—among the top two or three globally—in developing sixth-generation technology,” Demiroglu noted, adding that TAI is currently testing some of these advanced technologies on its ANKA III combat drone and Hurjet trainer jet.
The KAAN jet, once operational, will replace Türkiye’s ageing F-16 fleet, significantly reducing the country’s reliance on foreign military imports and signaling a transformative milestone for Türkiye’s aviation industry. Demiroglu expressed confidence that the new technologies will be ready in time for KAAN’s delivery at the end of the decade, underscoring TAI’s role in advancing Türkiye’s strategic and defense autonomy.
