Saudi Arabia is negotiating to acquire up to 100 Kaan fifth-generation fighter jets from Türkiye, as the kingdom seeks alternatives to the U.S.-made F-35. Discussions include joint production and technology transfer agreements, with deliveries expected in the 2030s. The Kaan jet is part of Turkey’s effort to modernize its air force and reduce reliance on foreign military technology, reinforcing defense ties with Saudi Arabia and diversifying military resources.
Saudi Arabia has initiated discussions with Türkiye to procure up to 100 Kaan fifth-generation fighter jets, as the United States-made F-35 remains unattainable for the kingdom. The negotiations took place during a three-day meeting in Istanbul, where Haluk Görgün, the President of Türkiye’s Defense Industry, met with Saudi officials, including Deputy Defense Minister Khaled bin Hussein Al-Biyari and Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud. Focused on various aspects including potential joint production and technology transfer, deliveries of these fighter jets are anticipated in the 2030s.
Since 2012, Saudi Arabia has faced challenges in acquiring the F-35, which has prompted efforts to diversify its defense procurement sources. In prior discussions, Saudi Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud along with military officials reviewed the Kaan’s capabilities and explored opportunities for collaboration with Turkish defense firms such as TAI, Aselsan, and Roketsan. Furthermore, the Saudis had previously engaged in a $3.1 billion agreement with Türkiye for 60 Baykar AKINCI unmanned combat aerial vehicles set for delivery in the coming years.
Ukraine has also expressed interest in the Kaan, indicating a collaborative effort between Turkish and Ukrainian engineers in engine development. This reinforces the growing defense relationship between Türkiye and Ukraine amid ongoing technological partnerships. Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of the Kaan jet is part of a broader strategy to modernize its military capabilities and move away from reliance on U.S. suppliers, especially given the constraints surrounding F-35 access.
The ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Türkiye aims to foster an independent defense ecosystem aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. Despite operating various aircraft like F-15s and Typhoons, the lack of a fifth-generation fighter remains a gap that Saudi Arabia is keen to address. Additionally, alternative options including France’s Rafale and China’s J-31 are being considered.
The Kaan program, which began in 2016, aims to replace Türkiye’s aging fleet of F-16s while emphasizing local production and technological autonomy. Built with international collaboration, the Kaan integrates advanced technologies such as supercruise capability and low radar cross-section design, ensuring its competitiveness in contemporary aerial warfare.
Should the deal for the Kaan proceed, it would bolster Saudi Arabia’s military infrastructure and position Türkiye as a rising force in the global defense market, thus enhancing regional security dynamics. Türkiye, previously reliant on foreign defense acquisitions, is now capitalizing on its capabilities as a significant defense technology exporter.
The topic of Saudi Arabia’s interest in the Kaan fighter jet stems from its long-standing efforts to modernize and diversify its military capabilities, particularly in light of restrictions faced in purchasing U.S.-made aircraft such as the F-35. This shift represents a strategic pivot towards indigenous production and cooperation with Türkiye, showcasing an evolving defense relationship that aligns with regional geopolitical dynamics. The development of the Kaan program is central to Türkiye’s ambitions to grow its influence as a producer of advanced military technology, particularly drones and combat aircraft. The Kaan is designed to replace outdated platforms within the Turkish Air Force, promoting local defense manufacturing and operational independence. As Saudi Arabia seeks to enhance its military capabilities in response to regional security concerns, the Kaan presents an alternative solution to fulfill its combat aircraft requirements. Engagements with Türkish defense companies, alongside prior procurement agreements, highlight a strengthened bilateral defense relationship that is poised to lead to innovative joint projects and technology transfer initiatives.
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia’s negotiations for up to 100 Kaan fighter jets from Türkiye mark a significant step in its defense strategy, aimed at modernizing its military capabilities in light of difficulties accessing U.S. technology. This potential acquisition reflects broader trends of increased self-sufficiency in defense production and diversification in procurement sources. As Türkiye solidifies its role as a defense technology producer, this partnership not only reinforces bilateral ties but also enhances military readiness for both nations, potentially altering the regional defense landscape. If finalized, the sale could reshape the military balance within the region, solidifying Türkiye’s status as a key player in global defense markets.
Original Source: armyrecognition.com
