Saudi Arabia “considering its options” with potential 100 Kaan jet acquisition
The Kaan fifth-generation fighter has been formally under development since 2010, with TAI eyeing a 2030 entry-into-service date. (Photo: Turkish Aerospace Industries)
Despite local media reports, an analyst has suggested that the country could be using these discussions as a way to gain bargaining power to bolster its bid to join the Global Combat Air Programme.
According to local Turkish media sources, Saudi Arabia is reportedly considering the acquisition of up to 100 of Turkey’s indigenous Kaan fighter jets to bolster the Royal Saudi Air Force (RSAF) fleet.
At the end of December 2024, Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, secretary of defence industries for the Turkish Defence Industry Agency, hosted Saudi Arabia Deputy Minister of Defense HE Dr. Khaled Bin Hussein Al Biyari and Chief of Air Forces HRH Turki bin Bandar Al Saud in Istanbul. It was reported that in these talks, the discussion of Saudi Arabia acquiring 100 KAAN jets for 2030 was raised.
Around a similar
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Lockheed plans further solid rocket motor investment in Europe and Middle East]()
Lockheed plans further solid rocket motor investment in Europe and Middle East
The company has worked to heavily invest in its solid rocket motor production capabilities, both in the US and internationally, to build a strong supply chain to meet growing demand.
-
![Boeing to build Apache AH-64E attack helicopters for Poland, Egypt and Kuwait]()
Boeing to build Apache AH-64E attack helicopters for Poland, Egypt and Kuwait
The $4.7 billion international order for the three countries will see production conclude around May 2032.
-
![How the US Air Force plans to use data analytics to enhance the roles of airmen and assets]()
How the US Air Force plans to use data analytics to enhance the roles of airmen and assets
The USAF has allocated nearly US$500 million to further the deployment of this type of technology in FY2026. It envisions using analytics to enhance sensors, weapons, missiles and human performance.
-
![GKN Aerospace to fly new UAV demonstrator by 2027]()
GKN Aerospace to fly new UAV demonstrator by 2027
The company plans to develop a cost-effective jet-engine drone, going from concept to a flight-tested demonstrator in 18 months.
-
![Sikorsky emphasises localised Black Hawk conversion for uncrewed U-Hawk]()
Sikorsky emphasises localised Black Hawk conversion for uncrewed U-Hawk
The platform was first unveiled in September 2025, with efforts now focusing on flight tests in the next year.
