Saudi Arabia is in talks with the Turkish company Türkiye regarding the potential acquisition of 100 fifth-generation Kaan fighter jets. The negotiations took place during a three-day meeting in Istanbul. Haluk Görgün, the President of Türkiye’s Defense Industries, met with Khaled bin Hussein Al-Biyari, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Defense. The meeting was also attended by Turki bin Bandar Al-Saud, the Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force. The discussions covered the potential purchase of the aircraft, opportunities for joint production, technology transfer agreements, and expected deliveries slated for the 2030s.
Saudi Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud visited Turkey a few months ago, where he was briefed on the capabilities of the Kaan aircraft and the potential for strategic collaboration. Reports suggest that Saudi Arabia plans to purchase over 100 aircraft, signaling an intention to diversify its defense procurement sources and reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has already signed a $3.1 billion agreement with the Turkish company Baykar to acquire 60 Bayraktar Akıncı drones, which are expected to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.
Ukraine has also expressed interest in the Kaan fighter jets. Earlier this year, Ukraine’s ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, confirmed the country’s intention to acquire the aircraft, highlighting the collaboration between Turkish and Ukrainian engineers in developing its engines. Ukraine views the Kaan as a potential addition to its air fleet, aligning with its efforts to modernize its defense capabilities.
Bilateral defense relations between Saudi Arabia and Turkey have strengthened significantly in recent months. This summer, the two countries announced the possibility of joint defense projects, including agreements on technology transfer. Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) plays a central role in fostering partnerships with Turkish firms such as Aselsan, Roketsan, and Baykar. These collaborations focus on unmanned systems, defense electronics, and advanced aerospace technologies.
Saudi Arabia is considering acquiring Kaan fighter jets as part of its efforts to modernize its combat aircraft fleet, following challenges in obtaining American F-35s. The country is seeking alternatives due to U.S. restrictions tied to concerns over regional stability and human rights. Currently, the Saudi fleet includes F-15s, Typhoons, and Tornados but lacks a fifth-generation fighter jet. Alongside the Kaan, Saudi Arabia is also evaluating the French Rafale and the Chinese J-31 as potential options.
The TAI TF Kaan, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, completed its maiden flight on February 21, 2024, followed by a successful second flight on May 6, 2024. These developments are part of Turkey’s Air Force strategy to modernize its fleet and enhance operational capabilities. Initiated in 2016 with a $1.18 billion investment, the program involves collaboration with BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce, though it prioritizes domestic production and technological ownership. The aircraft features advanced design elements and is equipped with a range of locally produced munitions. Its deployment is expected to provide valuable operational data, drive design improvements, and ensure alignment with evolving combat requirements.
The Kaan is a twin-engine stealth fighter designed for air superiority and multi-role operations. The aircraft measures 21 meters in length, with a wingspan of 14 meters and a height of 6 meters. It can reach speeds of up to Mach 1.8, operate at altitudes of up to 55,000 feet, and has a combat range of approximately 1,100 kilometers. Equipped with an advanced AESA radar, internal weapon bays, and a payload capacity exceeding 6,000 kilograms, the Kaan is engineered to meet modern operational demands effectively.
Source: armyrecognition
