Ankara:Turkish Aerospace Industries is preparing to launch the second prototype of its fifth-generation fighter jet, Kaan, before the end of the year. The aircraft is currently undergoing high-speed taxi maneuvers, according to the firm's general manager.
According to Anadolu Agency, Mehmet Demiroglu, speaking at the TEKNOFEST Southeast aerospace and tech event, confirmed that all system checks on the first Kaan prototype, P1, have been completed. The P1 is expected to fly within weeks, while assembly and testing continue for the P2 prototype.
Demiroglu mentioned that the P1 will be launched followed shortly by the P2, provided there are no setbacks or delays. Slow taxi tests for the P2 have already been conducted.
TAI has achieved significant export milestones, including a recent deal with Azerbaijan for 14 units of the Hurkus-II turboprop trainer. Demiroglu indicated that new export agreements for both the training and light-armed attack configurations of the Hurkus are anticipated in the coming months and years.
The production batch for Azerbaijan will be produced domestically, while products for the Turkish Air Force are prioritized for speedy delivery. Lessons learned from earlier aircraft have been applied to new platforms and prototypes, with over 600 hours of flight time completed. The first delivery of mass-produced Hurjet units is expected to reach the Turkish Air Force by late 2027, with subsequent deliveries to Spain by late 2028.
TAI is overhauling its manufacturing architecture into a tiered subcontracting model, outsourcing up to 70% of part and subassembly fabrication. This model involves domestic partners to distribute structural workloads and meet delivery deadlines while controlling production costs.
Additionally, efforts are ongoing for the Air SOJ airborne electronic warfare project, with flight qualification trials currently underway for two specialized platforms. TAI plans to deliver its first two operational Air SOJ platforms next year in collaboration with Aselsan and the Defense Industries Agency.