Indonesia has signed a $10 billion contract to procure 48 KAAN fifth-generation fighter jets from Türkiye, marking the largest single-item export deal in Turkish history. The agreement, announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, underscores Türkiye’s growing defense collaboration with Indonesia, which already includes Turkish-made drones, missiles, and air defense systems.
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), KAAN is Türkiye’s first fifth-generation fighter jet and the first Turkish-built combat aircraft of the 21st century. Designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, KAAN offers advanced capabilities, high survivability, and agility, equipped with smart and robust combat systems.
The KAAN project has utilized cutting-edge engineering tools and methods to optimize its aerodynamic design. The cockpit, tailored to reduce pilot workload, incorporates advanced features to enhance situational awareness, accounting for physical, cognitive, and environmental factors.
The first KAAN prototype completed production and assembly, beginning ground tests before its maiden flight on February 21, 2024. During the 13-minute flight, KAAN reached an altitude of 8,000 feet and a speed of 230 knots. TUSAŞ plans to deliver the first KAAN to the Turkish Air Force in 2028, with the project on track as Türkiye’s largest aviation endeavor. Deliveries to the Indonesian Air Force are scheduled to be completed within 120 months.
TUSAŞ has secured orders for 298 KAAN aircraft, including 250 for the Turkish Air Force and 48 for Indonesia, reinforcing Türkiye’s position in the global defense market.
KAAN Technical Specifications
- Role: Fifth-generation, multi-role stealth fighter jet
- Crew: 1 (single-seat configuration)
- Length: Approximately 21 meters (68.9 feet)
- Wingspan: Approximately 14 meters (45.9 feet)
- Height: Approximately 6 meters (19.7 feet)
- Powerplant: 2 × General Electric F110-GE-129 turbofan engines (initially), with plans for indigenous TRMotor engines
- Maximum Speed: Mach 1.8 (approximately 2,220 km/h or 1,380 mph)
- Range: Approximately 1,100 km (684 miles) combat radius
- Service Ceiling: Approximately 55,000 feet (16,764 meters)
- Avionics: Advanced AESA radar, integrated sensor fusion, electronic warfare suite
- Armament: Internal weapons bay for air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, precision-guided munitions, and optional external hardpoints
- Stealth Features: Low radar cross-section, advanced materials, and coatings
- Key Capabilities: Supersonic cruise without afterburners, network-centric warfare integration, high maneuverability
