Saudi Arabia is reportedly planning to acquire approximately 100 units of the KAAN, the fifth-generation national combat aircraft developed by TUSAŞ. Defense industry cooperation between the two nations is rapidly advancing.
Intense Defense Industry Negotiations
After procuring the Akıncı Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) from Turkey, Saudi Arabia has now shown significant interest in TUSAŞ’s national combat aircraft, KAAN.
Recently, Turkey’s Defense Industries President Haluk Görgün met with Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Defense Minister Khaled bin Hussein Al-Biyari, Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud, and their delegation. The Defense Industries Presidency (SSB) announced the talks under the title “New Steps in Global Cooperation.”
The statement emphasized:
“Negotiations will continue for three days with the participation of Turkish defense industry firms. Our Presidency continues to take significant steps in international cooperation activities. These efforts, aimed at showcasing Turkey’s defense technology capabilities to the world, play a crucial role in building a shared future.”
Additionally, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler and Chief of General Staff General Metin Gürak met in Ankara with Saudi Arabia’s Chief of General Staff, General Fayyadh Bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili.
KAAN in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
According to Milliyet, Saudi Arabia’s interest in KAAN holds a significant place in its Vision 2030 objectives. Riyadh aims to boost its air defense capacity by acquiring 100 KAAN aircraft.
In October, Saudi Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud visited TUSAŞ’s facility in Ankara. During the visit, the delegation also held discussions with other Turkish defense industry firms.
KAAN Block 10 Deliveries Begin in 2028
TUSAŞ CEO Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu announced that the first tests for the KAAN Block 10 models would take place in 2025, with the initial delivery of 20 units scheduled for 2028. In the long term, a total production of 300 KAAN aircraft is planned.
Technical Specifications of the National Combat Aircraft KAAN
KAAN stands out as one of Turkey’s most advanced defense industry products.
Basic Specifications:
- Wingspan: 14 m (46 ft)
- Length: 21 m (69 ft)
- Height: 6 m (20 ft)
- Maximum Speed: 1.8 Mach (at 40,000 ft)
- Service Ceiling: 55,000 ft
- Positive/Negative G Limits: +9g / -3.5g
Technological Features:
- High-performance radar, electronic warfare, and artificial intelligence integration.
- Automatic target recognition and multi-data processing capabilities.
- Precision firing capability from internal weapon bays at supersonic speeds.
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