The Turkish government has taken delivery of its sixth test prototype of the homegrown TAI Kaan stealth fighter, marking another step in the nation’s pursuit of aerial self-sufficiency. This prototype will undergo a thorough regimen of stress assessments, avionics validations, high-speed taxi runs, and runway exercises—critical to verifying the jet’s intended performance and preparing for broader service induction.
Following completion of these evaluations, Turkey plans to phase in production airframes, with each successive batch featuring enhanced capabilities. In advanced phases, notably Block 30 and Block 40, the aircraft will integrate an indigenous engine and undergo further flight and certification tests. This acquisition is a feature of Turkey’s strategic shift toward autonomous defense industry solutions after exclusion from the F-35 program. Looking ahead, Turkish Air Force plans project the delivery of over 100 Kaan jets, with significant export interest already signaled by nations such as Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.
