Türkiye’s homegrown KAAN fighter jet completes first flight

Turkey’s fifth-generation fighter jet in development, the KAAN, achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday as it completed its inaugural flight.

Supervised by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the historic flight saw Commander Barbaros Demirbas of the Turkish Air Force take the helm. Lasting 11 minutes, the flight soared to an altitude of 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) and reached a speed of 230 knots (425 kilometers per hour).

The KAAN fighter jet, measuring 21 meters in length with a wingspan of 14 meters and standing 6 meters tall, marks a pivotal advancement in Turkey’s domestic aviation capabilities. With a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 27,215 kg, powered by two GE F110 engines boasting a combined thrust capacity of 76.31 kilonewtons and an afterburner thrust capacity of 131 kilonewtons, the KAAN demonstrates formidable performance. Its top speed of 2,716 km/h and combat range of up to 1,100 km signify its readiness for various operational scenarios.

Anticipated to integrate cutting-edge technologies, including a next-generation active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system, sophisticated communications systems, and superior electronic warfare capabilities, the KAAN heralds a new era in Turkish military aviation. Advanced stealth features such as radar-absorbing materials and state-of-the-art coatings contribute to its reduced radar cross-section, enhancing its survivability in contested environments.

TAI, the lead contractor for the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet development programme, plans to supply 20 KAAN Block 10 fighter jets to the Turkish Air Force by 2028 after taxi trials conclude in March. With an eye towards the future, the second prototype (P1), which will cover the full flight envelope and serve as a closer approximation to the intended production aircraft, is slated for takeoff in 2025. The anticipated third aircraft flight in 2026 and the delivery of follow-on blocks by 2034 are among the upcoming benchmarks.

The block 20 aircraft, with its supercruise capabilities and appropriate materials, coatings, sensors, and electronics, will represent the real fifth-generation fighter by 2034. Turkey’s dedication to developing its domestic defense sector and maintaining its standing as a major participant in the international aerospace arena is demonstrated by the KAAN project.