(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – Turkiye and Pakistan are intensifying discussions on defense and technology cooperation, including the potential export of the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet to Islamabad.
The KAAN fighter jet, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), is a key focus of the ongoing Pakistan-Turkiye Joint Industry Working Group meeting in Pakistan.
The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral defense ties and explore avenues for collaboration in advanced defense technology and industrial partnerships.
Representatives from 32 institutions, including leading companies from both nations, are participating in the meeting.
“This meeting underscores the strengthening of defense cooperation between Turkiye and Pakistan. Discussions on the export of the KAAN fighter jet and plans for joint development of helicopters highlight shared ambitions to advance defense technology collaboration and industrial partnerships,” Turkish media reported.
The meeting is organized by Pakistan’s National Aerospace Science and Technology Park and Turkiye’s Defence Industries Secretariat.
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The Turkish delegation is led by TAI General Manager Mehmet Demiroglu and includes prominent defense companies such as Milsoft, Crypttech, SDT, Aselsan, and Havelsan.
Two years ago, reports from Pakistan indicated that some subsystems for Turkiye’s fifth-generation fighter jet would be developed in Pakistan.
Additionally, a production line for the KAAN jet is planned to be established in Pakistan to produce the aircraft for the country’s air force, according to local media.
Recently, reports also suggested that Pakistan is set to acquire the Chinese-built J-35A fifth-generation fighter jet for its air force.
Turkiye and Pakistan share a close defense relationship, with Ankara assisting Islamabad in building warships and submarines currently used by Pakistan’s navy.
Pakistan also operates Turkish-made drones.
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Beyond Pakistan, Azerbaijan has reportedly signed an agreement with Turkiye to participate in the KAAN fighter jet development program, positioning itself as the first export market for the aircraft.
Azerbaijan, which has strong military ties with Turkiye, is expected to play a significant role in the KAAN project.
Launched in 2016, Turkiye’s KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet program aims to replace over 200 F-16 aircraft in the Turkish Air Force.
The prototype successfully completed its maiden flight in February 2023, followed by a second flight in May 2023.
The project reflects the significant advancements of Turkiye’s defense industry and provides an alternative to the U.S.-made F-35 jet after Turkiye was barred from the program due to its acquisition of Russia’s S-400 defense system.
TAI plans to deliver 20 KAAN Block 10 jets to the Turkish Air Force by 2028. By 2029, production is expected to reach two aircraft per month, generating an estimated annual revenue of $2.4 billion (RM9.6 billion).
The Turkish Air Force is projected to receive over 100 KAAN jets as mass production ramps up, with deliveries targeting two aircraft per month starting in 2029. — DSA