Paris: Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) is actively engaging in discussions with multiple countries to export its domestically developed KAAN fighter jet, as stated by the company's CEO, Mehmet Demiroglu, on Monday.
According to Anadolu Agency, TAI is showcasing its wide array of aviation products at the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget Airport. The display includes the multi-role Gokbey helicopter, the Hurkus basic training aircraft, the Hurjet advanced jet trainer, and the Aksungur unmanned aerial vehicle. Demiroglu emphasized TAI's comprehensive capabilities, describing the company as "the supermarket of Trkiye's aviation," with production units covering helicopters, UAVs, satellites, and components for prominent companies like Airbus and Boeing.
Demiroglu revealed that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto expressed interest in the KAAN fighter jet during his visit to Trkiye in April. This was followed by TAI's visit to Indonesia in May, culminating in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the Indo Defense Expo 2025 in Jakarta. He highlighted the significance of this MoU, stating that it outlines the specifics of the product, including the production quantity and process, with expectations for a final contract in the coming months.
TAI's KAAN fighter jet has garnered global interest, with ongoing discussions with various countries and anticipation of further developments. In addition to the KAAN, TAI's collaboration with Spain on the Hurjet has generated notable attention, marking Spain as the second NATO country, after Trkiye, to incorporate the aircraft for training purposes.
Demiroglu pointed out the recent surge in European defense spending, positioning Trkiye advantageously to meet the increased demand. Highlighting Trkiye's robust infrastructure and diverse product range, he noted the country's capability to satisfy both domestic needs and those of allies, alongside its strategic advantage as a defense products source. He further underscored TAI's history of collaborations with European manufacturers, including Airbus and Leonardo SpA, affirming TAI's readiness to fulfill Europe's platform requirements.