Saudi Arabia Plans to Acquire 100 Turkish Kaan Fighter Jets

Saudi Arabia is taking a significant step in its efforts to modernize its air force by expressing interest in purchasing 100 Kaan fighter jets from Turkey. This potential deal signals Riyadh's focus on strengthening its defense capabilities while transitioning toward a future sixth-generation air combat fleet.

Strengthening Ties Between Saudi Arabia and Turkey

The discussions surrounding the Kaan fighter jet purchase occurred during high-profile meetings in Istanbul and Ankara in late December 2024. Representatives from the Saudi defense ministry, military, and Turkish defense industry, including state-owned Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), were involved in these talks. Beyond fighter jets, the discussions also extended to collaborations on warships, radar systems, and missile programs, hinting at a broader defense partnership between the two nations.

Aligning with Sixth-Generation Fighter Development

Saudi Arabia’s interest in the Kaan jets aligns with its long-term strategic goal of adopting a sixth-generation fighter by the 2040s. The kingdom joined the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) in 2023, a collaboration among Italy, the UK, and Japan to develop cutting-edge air combat technology. With Saudi Arabia’s financial backing and market potential, the GCAP aims to produce an advanced fighter jet featuring stealth capabilities, high-tech sensors, and unmatched combat performance.

While the sixth-generation jet remains a decade and a half away, the acquisition of Kaan fighters would serve as a critical stand-in fleet for Saudi Arabia, ensuring its air force remains robust and capable in the interim.

The Turkish Kaan Fighter: Key Specifications

Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, the Kaan fighter jet represents a significant leap in Turkey’s aviation technology. Designed to replace the aging F-16 fleet, the Kaan aims to deliver advanced capabilities comparable to fifth-generation fighters like the American F-35.

• Dimensions: The Kaan measures 21 meters (69 feet) in length with a wingspan of 14 meters (46 feet).
• Performance: It is powered by twin General Electric turbofan engines, allowing a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 (2,223 kilometers/1,381 miles per hour) and an operational ceiling of 17,000 meters (55,775 feet).
• Armament: The aircraft can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles, precision-guided bombs, and miniature munitions.
• Systems: Equipped with advanced radar, electronic warfare, and target-tracking systems, the Kaan offers cutting-edge situational awareness and combat effectiveness.
• Versatility: Its all-weather capability makes it suitable for various missions, including precision strikes and defensive operations.

The Kaan made its maiden flight in February 2024 and has since been positioned as a competitive option in the global fighter jet market.

Strategic Implications for Saudi Arabia

For Saudi Arabia, the acquisition of the Kaan jets represents more than just fleet modernization; it signals a shift toward diversifying its defense procurement strategies. Historically reliant on Western suppliers, this move demonstrates Riyadh’s interest in exploring new partnerships to enhance its military capabilities while reducing dependence on traditional allies.

If finalized, the purchase of 100 Kaan fighter jets would be one of the largest defense deals between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, underscoring the growing strategic relationship between the two countries.

As the kingdom prepares for the eventual induction of a sixth-generation aircraft, the Kaan fighters will play a pivotal role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Saudi air force, ensuring it remains a formidable force in the region.

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