Indonesia has officially signed an export agreement with Turkey for the acquisition of 48 units of the fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI).
The contract was signed during the IDEF25 defense exhibition held in Istanbul and marks the largest export deal in the history of the Turkish defense industry.
The information was reported by the specialized outlet TurDef, which confirmed that all necessary formalities for the export of the fighters to Indonesia were completed with the signing of the contract.
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Strategic Industrial Partnership
Prior to the final agreement, a memorandum of understanding had already been signed in June during the “Indo Defense 2025” fair, outlining the delivery of 48 fighters and the participation of local companies in the production process.
In Indonesia, where TAI already operates an office, new facilities will be built to accelerate the “localization” of production. As part of the partnership, TAI has signed agreements with Indonesian companies PT Republik Aero Dirgantara and PT Dirgantara Indonesia, aiming at cooperation in manufacturing engineering and technology transfer.
According to the memorandum, the delivery of the jets will take place over a period of 120 months (10 years), and the total value of the project exceeds US$ 10 billion.
KAAN: Turkey’s Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet
The KAAN, previously known as MMU (Milli Muharip Uçak) or TF-X, was officially named on May 1, 2023. The project aims to develop an aircraft with a low radar signature, high maneuverability, and advanced systems including onboard radar and electro-optical sensors.
The prototype’s first flight took place in February 2024, following ground tests that began in March 2023. The aircraft took off accompanied by a Turkish Air Force F-16D and successfully completed its maiden flight, landing with the aid of a drag parachute.
By the end of 2026, three MMU Block prototypes are expected to be produced, with a Block I prototype planned for completion by 2029. The KAAN is considered a potential replacement for the F-16s currently operated by the Turkish Air Force.
Turkey Advances in Aircraft Exports
The contract with Indonesia strengthens Turkey’s position as an emerging exporter in the defense sector. Recently, Spain also signed a contract with the country to purchase 30 HÜRJET training jets for its air force, reflecting the growing international interest in the technologies developed by TAI.
Sources: TurDef | Militarnyi | X @SavunmaSanayii. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
