Turkey has reached a significant milestone in its aerospace ambitions as its home-built 5th generation stealth fighter, KAAN, completed its inaugural flight. The successful test flight marks a key step forward in Turkey’s efforts to modernize and strengthen its air force capabilities.
Initiated in 2016, Turkey’s TF-X project aimed at developing a national combat aircraft has now materialized with the maiden flight of KAAN. This achievement underscores Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign military technologies.
The project, spearheaded by Turkish aerospace firm TUSAS, received a boost in 2017 with a $125 million deal signed with Britain’s BAE Systems to collaborate on the development of the next-generation fighter jet. The successful flight of KAAN represents a culmination of years of collaborative effort and technological innovation.
A video released by TUSAS showcased the impressive takeoff and landing of the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet at an air base in north Ankara. Haluk Gorgun, head of Turkey’s Defence Industries Directorate (SSB), expressed pride in the achievement, highlighting the advanced technologies incorporated into KAAN that few countries possess.
Equipped with stealth capabilities, KAAN is powered by two General Electric F-110 engines initially, similar to those used in fourth-generation Lockheed Martin F-16 jets. However, Turkey aims to utilize domestically produced engines for KAAN in serial production, slated to commence in 2028.
Despite facing challenges such as U.S. sanctions imposed in December 2020 over Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s S-400 missile defense system, Ankara remains steadfast in its pursuit of technological advancement in the defense sector. Expulsion from the F-35 stealth fighter jet program has not deterred Turkey from striving for self-sufficiency in military technology.
In addition to the KAAN project, Turkey recently secured a deal with the United States to procure 40 F-16 fighter jets and 79 modernization kits for its existing F-16 fleet, reflecting its commitment to maintaining a modern and capable air force.
Furthermore, Ankara’s interest in acquiring 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets, developed by a consortium of European nations represented by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, underscores Turkey’s determination to diversify its military assets and partnerships.
As Turkey continues to invest in indigenous defense capabilities and forge international collaborations, the successful debut of KAAN marks a significant stride towards achieving self-reliance and bolstering its position as a key player in the global defense industry.
Sources By Agencies
