In a strategic move marking a new chapter in the global defense industry, Indonesia signed a $10 billion contract on June 11, 2025, with Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) for the acquisition of 48 fifth-generation stealth fighter jets KAAN, the largest military export deal ever secured by Turkey.
+ Video: Fifth-generation multirole fighter KAAN
The announcement was made during the Indo Defence 2025 exhibition in Jakarta, representing not only a milestone for Turkey’s aerospace industry but also a significant signal of geopolitical realignment in the Indo-Pacific region. Aiming to reduce its dependence on Western suppliers, Indonesia sees the purchase of the KAAN jets as an opportunity to diversify its strategic partners and achieve greater technological autonomy.
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Previously known as TF-X, the KAAN is a fifth-generation multirole fighter developed by TAI to replace the aging F-16 fleet of the Turkish Air Force. The aircraft was designed to compete with advanced models such as the American F-35 and the Chinese J-20.
Its main features include:
- Stealth design
- Twin engines
- Modular architecture
- Maximum speed of Mach 1.8
- Combat radius of 600 nautical miles
- Integrated sensor fusion, including AESA radar and IRST (Infrared Search and Track) systems
In addition, the KAAN is designed to integrate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and drone collaboration — components considered essential for the future of air combat.
The jet made its maiden flight in February 2024 and currently uses U.S.-made F110 engines, but a transition to domestically produced Turkish engines is expected to be completed by 2030.
This deal places Turkey at a new level in the global defense export arena and significantly strengthens strategic ties with Indonesia, one of the largest emerging powers in Southeast Asia.
Source and images: Armyrecognition | Recep Tayyip Erdoğan X @RTErdogan. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
