UAE Shows Interest In Turkiye KAAN Fighter Jet

The United Arab Emirates has expressed significant interest in Türkiye’s KAAN fighter jet program, marking a potential expansion of defense cooperation between the two nations. Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) CEO Mehmet Demiroglu revealed this development at IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the growing international recognition of Turkish defense capabilities. The announcement signals a possible deepening of strategic partnerships in military aviation development.

Comprehensive Defense Partnership Emerging

Beyond the KAAN fighter jet, the UAE’s interest extends to multiple Turkish defense platforms. A significant agreement has been signed between TAI and UAE-based Calidus for collaboration on the Hurkus training aircraft. Additionally, renewed discussions about the ATAK helicopter acquisition demonstrate the broadening scope of defense cooperation. The UAE’s previous positive experience with ATAK 1 testing has laid groundwork for potential future procurement.

Future Collaborative Projects

The partnership potential extends beyond existing platforms, with discussions about joint development of a new air platform and strong interest in the ANKA-3 unmanned combat aerial vehicle. TAI’s development of the KAAN fighter jet continues to progress, with the second prototype scheduled for completion by year-end and the third in early 2026. Initial deliveries are projected for 2028, with the possibility of UAE joining existing international partners, including Saudi Arabia, in the project’s development.

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Strategic Implications for Regional Defense Cooperation

This potential collaboration represents a significant shift in regional defense dynamics. The UAE’s interest in Turkish defense technology, particularly the KAAN fighter jet, could lead to deeper strategic partnerships between the two nations. Such cooperation could enhance both countries’ defense capabilities while fostering technological exchange and joint development opportunities in the military aviation sector.

This developing partnership between Türkiye and the UAE in defense technology signals a new chapter in regional cooperation, potentially reshaping the landscape of military aviation development in the Middle East.

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