Indonesia and Turkey Sign MoU for Acquisition of KAAN Fighter Jets
Jakarta, Indonesianpost.com – Reported by Antara, The Indonesian Ministry of Defense and Turkey’s Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the purchase of the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jets, manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries.
The MoU was signed by Indonesian Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Prof. Haluk Gorgun, President of the Turkish SSB, at the Indo Defence Expo & Forum in Jakarta on Wednesday, June 11. The event saw Turkey’s participation, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was also present to witness the signing.
KAAN marks a significant milestone as Turkey’s first fully developed and manufactured fighter jet. This state-of-the-art aircraft boasts fifth-generation features, such as advanced stealth technology, exceptional maneuverability, supercruise capabilities, low radar visibility, adaptable avionics, enhanced situational awareness, precision targeting, and interoperability with other systems.
The development of the KAAN began in June 2019, with the production of the first prototype commencing in March 2022. By the end of 2022, the aircraft’s components were completed, and final assembly was finished in November. The prototype underwent intensive testing in December 2022, followed by its public unveiling in January 2023.
According to Turkish Aerospace Industries, the KAAN is designed to deploy all Turkish-made missiles and munitions, enabling it to effectively counter both air and air-to-ground threats. The fighter jet can reach speeds of up to Mach 1.8, with a service ceiling of 55,000 feet, and is capable of withstanding G-limits of +9g/-3.5g. Its internal weapons bays, supercruise ability, reduced radar signature, multi-mission profiles, and versatility in combat missions make it a formidable asset in both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.
In a related event at the same venue, PT Dirgantara Indonesia, the country’s state-owned aircraft manufacturer, signed a cooperation framework (FA) agreement with Turkish Aerospace Industries regarding the KAAN fighter jet.
This collaboration between Indonesia and Turkey marks an important step in strengthening bilateral defense ties and advancing Indonesia’s defense capabilities. (BL)