Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced an ambitious plan and a serious commitment to joint investment between Saudi Arabia and Turkey, aimed at cooperating on the production of the Turkish fifth-generation fighter jet known as the KAAN. This announcement reinforces the growing relationship between the two countries, particularly in the defense industry sector, which has witnessed significant advancements recently.
Project details and technical capabilities of the "Kaan" fighter jet
The Kaan fighter jet, formerly known as the TF-X, is considered the crown jewel of the Turkish defense industry. Designed as a fifth-generation fighter, it boasts stealth capabilities, advanced avionics, and exceptional maneuverability. Through this project, Turkey aims to replace its aging fleet of F-16s and reduce its reliance on Western suppliers in the military aviation sector. The involvement of Saudi Arabia as an investment or manufacturing partner in this ambitious project will provide a significant financial and technological boost, accelerating the aircraft's development and mass production.
The context of military cooperation: from drones to fighter jets
This talk of partnership in the "Kaan" project is not unfounded, but rather rests on a solid foundation of successful military cooperation between Ankara and Riyadh. This announcement was preceded by Saudi Arabia's signing of the largest defense export contract in Turkey's history, which included the purchase of Bayraktar Akinci drones. This strategic rapprochement underscores the two countries' desire to deepen their military alliance and exchange technical expertise, as cooperation is no longer limited to direct purchases but has moved to the stage of localization and joint development.
Strategic importance and alignment of visions
This move directly aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which aims to localize more than 50% of the Kingdom’s military spending. Investing in a project the size of the Can fighter jets presents Saudi Arabia with a golden opportunity to acquire advanced aviation technology and develop its national workforce. Conversely, Turkey seeks to diversify its international partners and secure sustainable funding for its costly defense projects, making this partnership a strategic win-win situation for both parties.
Expected regional and international impact
This cooperation is expected to shift the regional balance of power, as the project's success will lead to the emergence of a joint Islamic air force equipped with fifth-generation technology, currently the preserve of a very limited number of major powers. Furthermore, this alliance sends clear political messages regarding the sovereign decision-making of both countries in diversifying their arms sources and building self-reliant defense systems, thereby enhancing security and stability in the Middle East and opening new avenues for cooperation among major regional powers.
