Turkey’s KAAN P1 and P2 Prototypes to Begin Flight Tests in 2026

Turkey’s ambitious fifth-generation fighter jet program KAAN is entering a critical new phase, as P1 and P2 prototypes are scheduled to begin flight operations in 2026, according to Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) CEO Mehmet Demiroğlu.

The announcement marks a major milestone in Ankara’s push for defence self-reliance and positions Turkey among a small group of nations developing an indigenous next-generation combat aircraft.

KAAN Program: From Prototype to Fifth-Generation Fighter

KAAN, formerly known as TF-X, is Turkey’s flagship aerospace project aimed at replacing the aging F-16 fleet while delivering advanced stealth, sensor fusion, and network-centric warfare capabilities.

The aircraft’s first prototype successfully conducted its maiden flight in 2024, proving the basic aerodynamic and flight-control design. The upcoming P1 and P2 prototypes represent a more advanced stage of development, incorporating improvements based on initial test data.

What Makes P1 and P2 Important?

Unlike early proof-of-concept aircraft, the P1 and P2 prototypes are expected to:

• Feature refined stealth shaping and materials
• Integrate more mature avionics and mission systems
• Advance radar, electronic warfare, and sensor fusion testing
• Expand the flight envelope, including high-speed and high-altitude trials

These aircraft will be central to validating KAAN’s performance as a true fifth-generation fighter, rather than a technology demonstrator.

Engines and Systems Development

In its early phases, KAAN prototypes are powered by U.S.-origin General Electric F110 engines, similar to those used on Turkish F-16s. However, Turkey is simultaneously working on a domestically developed engine for future production variants, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

KAAN is also designed to carry:

• AESA radar
• Advanced electronic warfare suites
• Infrared search and track (IRST)
• Secure data links for network-centric operations
• Internal weapons bays to preserve stealth

Strategic Significance for Turkey

The KAAN program is not only a military project but a strategic statement. Following Turkey’s removal from the F-35 program, Ankara accelerated efforts to build an indigenous alternative that could:

• Ensure long-term air superiority
• Support independent foreign and defence policy
• Strengthen Turkey’s domestic defence industry

With KAAN, Turkey aims to join an elite group of nations — including the United States, China, and a handful of others — capable of designing and producing fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Export Potential and International Interest

Although KAAN is primarily intended for the Turkish Air Force, officials have repeatedly signaled export ambitions, particularly to friendly nations seeking alternatives to Western or Chinese platforms.

The successful flight of multiple prototypes will be critical for:

• Boosting international confidence
• Attracting industrial partners
• Demonstrating long-term program viability

What Comes After 2026

Following the P1 and P2 flights:

• Additional prototypes are expected to enter testing
• Weapons integration and operational testing will accelerate
• Low-rate initial production could follow later in the decade

If development stays on track, KAAN could begin replacing F-16s in Turkish service during the early 2030s.