Official announcements from Turkish Aerospace Industries or Saudi defense ministry

Saudi Arabia to Acquire 100 Turkish KAAN Jets with Tech Transfer, Local Manufacturing

Dec 30, 2024, 05:16 AM

Saudi Arabia is reportedly planning to purchase 100 units of Turkey's fifth-generation fighter jet, the KAAN, currently under development. This proposal was discussed during a visit to Turkey by Prince Turki bin Bandar Al Saud, Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force, who engaged with Turkish defense companies, including Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), the manufacturer of the KAAN. The acquisition aligns with Saudi Arabia's efforts to modernize its air force and strengthen defense ties with Turkey. The KAAN fighter jet, which completed its maiden flight in February 2024 and a second flight in June 2024, features advanced capabilities but is considered a "4.75-generation" aircraft due to its reliance on American-made engines, which Turkey plans to replace with indigenous designs. The deal is expected to include technology transfer and potential local manufacturing in Saudi Arabia. TAI has planned to deliver the first 20 KAAN Block 10 jets by 2028, ramping up production to two units per month by 2029. This follows a broader trend of Saudi Arabia diversifying its defense partnerships, including a $3 billion purchase of Turkish drones in 2023, and reflects its strategic focus on reducing reliance on traditional Western suppliers.