Turkey’s Defense Industry Leap: 48 KAAN Fighter Jet Deal Signed with Indonesia
At a ceremony during the International Defense Industry Fair in Istanbul (IDEF 2025), Turkey and Indonesia signed a contract for the sale of 48 advanced KAAN fighter jets. This agreement marks the largest defense export in the history of the Republic of Turkey and includes the delivery of the aircraft within 120 months, as well as joint production cooperation in Indonesia.
The signing ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from both countries: Haluk Görgün (Head of Turkey’s Defense Industry Agency), Şefri Şemseddin (Indonesia’s Defense Minister), Omer Cihad Vardan (Chairman of TUSAŞ), and Şuay Alpay (Turkish Deputy Defense Minister).
Görgün emphasized that this is not merely a sale but that TUSAŞ will collaborate with Indonesian partners in KAAN production to leverage local capabilities. The goal is joint development of future-generation fighter jets.
The KAAN fighter jet features advanced technical specifications, including a speed of Mach 1.8 (2,222 km/h), stealth capabilities, infrared signature reduction, supercruise ability, an internal weapons bay, and integrated sensors for superior situational awareness.
Defense cooperation between the two countries extends further: Prior to this deal, Turkish company TAIS had agreed with Indonesia to build Istanbul-class frigates. Görgün described these frigates as the best in their class worldwide, with subsystems developed by Turkish defense firms, including ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN, and TÜBİTAK.
Turkey’s President had previously stated at the INDO Defence 2025 event that the KAAN symbolizes the maturity of Turkey’s defense industry and that this collaboration will transform the strategic capabilities of both nations. Görgün also revealed ongoing talks with several other countries for KAAN sales, calling this agreement a foundation for global peace through deterrence.
With an 83% localization rate, Turkey’s defense industry has gained the ability to execute large-scale export projects. This deal paves the way for joint production of sixth-generation fighter jets and the expansion into new markets in Asia and the Middle East. Turkey’s defense exports have experienced a historic leap with this agreement, solidifying Ankara’s position as a key player in the global aerospace industry.
