Turkey to Export 48 KAAN Fighter Jets to Indonesia Under Historic Deal

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Wednesday that his country will export 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia, marking the first export deal for the advanced aircraft still in development. The agreement was disclosed on the sidelines of the defense industry exposition, Indo Defence 2025, in Jakarta, where Erdogan praised Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for his role in securing the deal. Turkey's indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, the KAAN, completed its maiden flight in 2024, and its first units are expected to be delivered in 2028. The deal highlights growing economic and defense ties between Turkey and Indonesia, which also plan to jointly develop a Baykar combat-drone factory.

Key Takeaways:

  • The deal marks the first export of Turkey's domestically produced KAAN fighter jet, with 48 units to be manufactured in Turkey and exported to Indonesia.
  • The agreement showcases the progress and achievements of Turkey's domestic and national defense industry.
  • Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was commended by Erdogan for his role in securing the deal.
  • The KAAN is Turkey's first indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet, which successfully completed its maiden flight in 2024, with deliveries expected to start in 2028.
  • The deal is a significant milestone in growing defense ties between Turkey and Indonesia, with both countries also planning to jointly develop a Baykar combat-drone factory in Indonesia.
  • Pakistan and Azerbaijan, with strong defense ties with Turkey, are reportedly interested in purchasing KAAN fighters.
  • The deal was disclosed on the sidelines of the Indo Defence 2025 exposition in Jakarta.

Statistics:

  • 48 KAAN fighter jets will be exported to Indonesia under the historic deal.
  • The KAAN completed its maiden flight in 2024.
  • The first units of the KAAN are expected to be delivered by 2028.
  • Turkey's domestic and national defense industry has progressed significantly, with the KAAN being its first indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet.

Sources:

  • Turkey's Sabah newspaper
  • A statement by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan