ISLAMABAD (Agencies): Turkey and Pakistan are set to enhance their defense collaboration with the establishment of a production facility in Pakistan for the fifth-generation KAAN stealth fighter jet. This state-of-the-art factory will produce customized aircraft for the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), incorporating advanced Chinese WS-10G engines.
The KAAN, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) under the National Combat Aircraft (TF-X) program, is a twin-engine, all-weather, multirole stealth fighter jet. Designed to rival other fifth-generation aircraft like the F-35 and J-20, the KAAN features cutting-edge technology, including:
- Stealth Capability: The aircraft boasts an advanced low-observable airframe design, reducing radar cross-section for enhanced survivability in hostile environments.
- Supercruise Performance: KAAN can achieve supersonic speeds without engaging afterburners, making it faster and more fuel-efficient in combat scenarios.
- Integrated Avionics: It is equipped with advanced mission systems, a glass cockpit with artificial intelligence-assisted controls, and an advanced radar system for superior situational awareness.
- Multirole Design: The jet is capable of conducting a wide range of missions, including air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance.
- High Weapon Payload: With multiple internal and external weapon stations, it can carry a variety of armaments, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and precision-guided munitions.
The first KAAN prototype successfully made its maiden flight in February 2024, marking a major milestone in Turkey’s indigenous defense industry. The production facility in Pakistan will ensure that the aircraft meets the specific operational and geographic requirements of the PAF.
- Strategic Implications
The Pakistani variant of the KAAN will integrate the Chinese WS-10G engines, known for their high thrust-to-weight ratio and reliability. This trilateral collaboration among Turkey, Pakistan, and China reflects a significant step in strengthening defense ties and advancing technology-sharing agreements.
The move also highlights Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its air force amid evolving regional security challenges. With the production of KAAN jets domestically, Pakistan will gain a strategic advantage by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, enhancing indigenous defense capabilities, and creating new opportunities for local aerospace industries.
- Global Competitiveness
The KAAN fighter jet is expected to compete in the global market with other fifth-generation jets, offering a cost-effective alternative with high-end capabilities. Analysts believe its partnership with Pakistan will not only boost bilateral defense cooperation but also create avenues for exports to other countries seeking affordable advanced fighter jets.
- Future Outlook
The production facility in Pakistan is anticipated to bolster the country’s defense production capabilities and open up new opportunities for research, development, and innovation in aviation technology. Experts see this collaboration as a game-changer for Pakistan’s air force modernization efforts and a testament to the strengthening strategic partnership between Turkey, Pakistan, and China.
This initiative underscores a shared commitment to technological advancement, regional stability, and the modernization of military capabilities in an increasingly dynamic geopolitical environment.