Türkiye unveils new KAAN combat aircraft prototypes, advances toward mass production

2026-02-14 - 05:55

Türkiye's indigenous fighter aircraft program reached a significant milestone Friday with the unveiling of new KAAN prototypes, as officials accelerated preparations for both testing and serial production. Haluk Gorgun, head of the Secretariat of Defense Industries, visited the Turkish Aerospace Industries hangar to inspect the full-size static test aircraft alongside the first and second flight prototypes, describing the rollout as a pivotal technical achievement for the nation's defense industry. Strategic Symbol and Technical Capabilities Gorgun emphasized that KAAN transcends its role as a combat aircraft, representing Türkiye's engineering excellence and pursuit of independent defense capacity. The fifth-generation jet incorporates advanced low observability features, internal weapon bays, enhanced situational awareness, and sensor fusion capabilities designed to achieve superiority in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Following the first prototype's inaugural flight in 2024, development continues with parallel focus on manned and unmanned operational capabilities. Domestic Engine Development and Industrial Ecosystem A central program objective involves developing a domestic engine, which would further elevate Türkiye's position among elite aerospace nations. Gorgun noted that KAAN serves as a catalyst strengthening national infrastructure, human resources, and technological accumulation simultaneously. The domestic supply chain now encompasses more than 5,000 employees across over 300 companies operating in more than 20 cities, demonstrating the program's extensive industrial footprint. Authorities are rapidly advancing mass production preparations concurrent with ongoing testing phases, signaling confidence in the program's trajectory toward operational service with the Turkish Air Force.