Turkey’s KAAN fighter aircraft is emerging as a notable competitor to the U.S.-made F-35 stealth jet, particularly in arms sales to the Global South by positioning itself as a more accessible alternative. Its growing appeal among emerging economies was marked by Turkey’s recent export deal with Indonesia, which includes 48 planes. This agreement indicates a pivotal moment for Turkey’s defense industry, driven by a desire for self-reliance in military technology. The Turkish government has not commented publicly on the specifics of the deal, but the KAAN’s development represents a significant shift in Turkey’s strategic defense posture, moving away from reliance on Western military technology.
The KAAN fighter, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), is designed to replace Turkey’s aging fleet of F-16s and aims to cater to neighboring countries seeking affordable defense solutions. TAI officials assert that the aircraft will be more cost-effective than the F-35, which further positions it as an attractive option for nations looking to modernize their air forces without breaking the bank. Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 program in 2019 due to its acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile systems has catalyzed Ankara’s effort to achieve strategic autonomy in defense, reflected in its rapid advancements in indigenous military technology.
The interest surrounding the KAAN fighter has grown notably since its first test flight in 2024, with speculation about potential new participants in the program, including Egypt. President Erdogan has consistently highlighted the significance of the deal with Indonesia, showcasing Turkey’s accomplishments in the defense sector. Furthermore, countries in the Gulf region are expressing interest in the KAAN as the U.S. remains hesitant to provide advanced military systems, primarily to maintain Israel’s military superiority. Meanwhile, diplomatic friction between the U.S. and Turkey continues over various geopolitical issues, including tensions in Gaza and historical differences over Syria.
The KAAN’s development also aligns with Turkey’s broader strategy to replace aging military assets with more advanced technology. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has overtly expressed interest in collaborating with Turkey on the KAAN fighter and submarine projects, emphasizing the potential for deepening military-industrial partnerships. Analysts point out that Turkey’s pricing strategy for the KAAN may appeal to countries in the region looking to modernize their arsenals, particularly those with Soviet-era military equipment that now seek NATO-standard systems.
As Turkey aims to operationalize the KAAN fighter by 2028, the aircraft’s development could redefine military capabilities in markets traditionally dominated by Russia and Western powers. Experts suggest Azerbaijan and Ukraine are potential future operators of the KAAN, potentially allowing Turkey to establish a foothold in these strategically important regions. The initiative could also reflect a broader alignment of interests among countries that are shifting away from dependence on traditional arms suppliers.
Looking ahead, Turkey’s defense aspirations hinge on increasing domestic production and reducing reliance on external entities. This ambition is not only ambitious but also rooted in the desire to carve out a more significant role in international defense markets. As the KAAN progresses toward deployment, its success will depend on Turkey’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical relationships, maintain production quality, and meet the evolving needs of emerging militaries seeking reliable, cost-effective defense solutions.
