At the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates expressed interest in the KAAN fighter project developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). This marks a new step in the expansion of defense relations between Türkiye and Gulf nations, as the KAAN program continues to attract international attention. The announcement was made by TAI CEO Mehmet Demiroglu, who also mentioned the possibility of jointly developing an air platform between the UAE and Türkiye.At the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates expressed interest in the KAAN fighter project developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). This marks a new step in the expansion of defense relations between Türkiye and Gulf nations, as the KAAN program continues to attract international attention. The announcement was made by TAI CEO Mehmet Demiroglu, who also mentioned the possibility of jointly developing an air platform between the UAE and Türkiye.
In terms of armament, the KAAN has eight internal and six external hardpoints, allowing it to carry air-to-air missiles such as the Peregrine (Gökdoğan) and Skykhan (Gökhan), as well as air-to-ground weapons like the SOM-J, KUZGUN-TJ, and AKBABA for precision strikes.
The KAAN is a fifth-generation stealth air superiority fighter designed by TAI to replace Türkiye’s fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons and to be offered for export. It features a twin-engine configuration and incorporates advanced technologies, including a carbon composite fuselage to reduce its radar signature, supercruise capability, and integrated sensors for data fusion and networked warfare. The aircraft is equipped with the MURAD-600A AESA radar, advanced electro-optical systems such as the KARAT-200 IRST, and a digital cockpit with the TULGAR helmet. It is designed for multi-role missions, including air defense, strike operations, and reconnaissance.