TUSAŞ CEO Mehmet Demiroğlu has announced accelerated timelines for the KAAN fighter jet programme, bringing first deliveries forward by two years and opening new opportunities for partner nations including Pakistan.
The development marks a significant boost for the Pakistan Air Force as it pursues fifth-generation capabilities through deep defence ties with Turkey. Demiroğlu stated that KAAN aircraft will appear in the skies within a few months while four to six prototypes undergo intensive testing over the next two years. Mass production efforts continue in parallel, with initial deliveries targeted for the end of 2028 or first quarter of 2029.
This timeline represents a notable advancement from earlier projections that placed full-scale production start around 2030. Industry observers note the compressed schedule reflects rapid progress in systems integration, structural testing and supply chain maturation. Prototypes P1 and P2 are entering rigorous flight regimes including high-altitude, supersonic and high-G manoeuvres.
Pakistan’s involvement in the KAAN project dates back several years with nearly 200 Pakistani engineers contributing to development. Bilateral agreements include plans for a joint production facility in Pakistan, positioning the country as a key manufacturing partner rather than solely an end-user. Regional media reports from Turkish and Pakistani sources confirm ongoing cooperation discussions at high-level forums such as the Pak-Turkish Industrial Expo