Turkish fighter jet KAAN ready for first flight
TAI General Manager Temel Kotil answered the questions of press members within the scope of the Paris Airshow.
- Turkey
- Published Date: 12:06 | 21 June 2023
- Modified Date: 12:31 | 21 June 2023
Kotil highlighted that TAI had a larger presence at the fair this year, allowing for increased engagement and a higher volume of meetings.
He emphasized the significant meeting traffic and the fruitful discussions with various military and civilian officials, particularly from African countries.
Upon the questions regarding the national combat aircraft KAAN, Kotil made the following evaluations: ''The aircraft is ready for flight. We have completed all the necessary manufacturing and design processes.''
''A few components such as the landing gear and flight computer in the national combat are not yet airworthy, we expect them to be ready for flight by the end of the year.'' Kotil said.
''In 2028, during the initial stage known as Block-10, we plan to deliver 20 aircraft to the Air Force, surpassing the F16 but below the F35 in capabilities. By 2030, it will reach the level of a 5th generation aircraft.''
''The aircraft is very close to taking its first flight, like a bird leaving the nest. We are also working on another project where the aircraft will communicate with other planes, creating a sort of flying castle.'' Kotil added.
''The price of these planes is estimated to be around 100 million dollars, but the final selling price may vary."
Kotil emphasized that their company has shifted its focus towards exports after expanding its product range.
He proudly announced that they have successfully secured contracts worth 600 million dollars for military systems since the beginning of the year.
With a goal of reaching new heights in exports, Kotil stated their aim is to achieve at least 1 billion dollars in annual exports.