Saudi Arabia considers purchasing 100 KAAN fighter jets from Türkiye: Media
Türkiye's Kaan fighter jet. (TAI Photo)
Saudi Arabia is reportedly evaluating the acquisition of 100 KAAN fifth-generation fighter jets from Türkiye, signaling a potential deepening of defense industry cooperation between the two nations.
According to a report by Milliyet, high-level discussions have been held in Istanbul between Turkish and Saudi defense officials, including head of the Presidency of Defense Industries Haluk Gorgun, Saudi Deputy Minister of Defense Khaled Bin Hussein Al Biyari, and Saudi Air Force Commander Turki bin Bandar Al Saud.
New Steps in Global Partnerships!
Our Secretary of Defense Industries, Prof. Dr. Haluk Gorgun, hosted Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Defense, HE Dr. Khaled Bin Hussein Al Biyari, Chief of Air Forces HRH Turki bin Bandar Al Saud and their accompanying delegation in Istanbul.
Discussions will last for three days, with the participation of leading Turkish defense industry companies.
The Secreteriat of Defense Industries continues to take significant steps in fostering international cooperation.
These efforts aim to showcase Türkiye’s defense technology capabilities to the world and play a pivotal role in building a shared future.
Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries
Strategic talks centered on KAAN fighter jet
The meetings, which span three days, are aimed at establishing collaboration on large-scale defense projects such as KAAN, Türkiye’s indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet.
Saudi Arabia, as part of its Vision 2030 strategy, seeks to bolster domestic defense production capabilities while forming strong international partnerships. The potential acquisition of 100 KAAN aircraft aligns with these objectives, representing a significant investment in advanced military aviation technology.
Saudi interest grows following Akinci UCAV purchase
This development follows Saudi Arabia’s earlier acquisition of Türkiye’s Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV).
If the sale goes through, it could set a record for Türkiye’s exports. However, Saudi Arabia may seek joint production and technology transfer for the KAAN, similar to the arrangement made for the Bayraktar Akinci UCAV.
