TUSAŞ advances KAAN fighter jet and naval aviation systems

TUSAŞ General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu has announced significant progress in Turkey’s national defense aviation programs. The KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet is moving into intensive testing phases, with the second and third prototypes currently under development. While the first prototype has already flown, the upcoming models will focus on expanding the flight envelope, with a configuration integrated with weapons and combat systems expected to undergo testing in 2027.

Demiroğlu noted that the KAAN project has achieved a domestic content rate of approximately 90%, excluding the engine and ejection seat. Development of a fully domestic engine is projected to begin testing around 2032.

Additionally, TUSAŞ is enhancing capabilities for the Turkish Naval Forces. Work is underway to increase the payload capacity of the AKSUNGUR unmanned aerial vehicle from 750 kg to 1250 kg and extend its flight endurance to approximately 60 hours. The company is also integrating sonar systems into the GÖKBEY helicopter and a forthcoming 10-ton class helicopter to provide advanced maritime surveillance and combat capabilities.