What's happened
Turkey has signed an agreement to produce and export 48 KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia, integrating local capabilities into the manufacturing process. The deal was announced by President Erdogan during the Indo Defence 2025 exposition in Jakarta, highlighting the strengthening defense ties between the two nations.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Implications
- Strengthening Alliances: This deal signifies a deepening defense relationship between Turkey and Indonesia, potentially altering regional power dynamics.
- Economic Benefits: Turkey aims to bolster its defense industry through international partnerships, which could lead to increased exports and technological advancements.
- Regional Influence: As Indonesia enhances its military capabilities, it may shift the balance of power in Southeast Asia, attracting interest from neighboring countries like Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Future Outlook
- Delivery Timeline: The first units of the KAAN jets are expected to be delivered by 2028, marking a significant milestone for Turkey's defense sector.
- Potential for Expansion: If successful, this partnership could pave the way for further collaborations in defense technology and manufacturing between Turkey and other nations.
What the papers say
According to Sinan Tavsan from Nikkei Asia, President Erdogan announced the production of 48 KAAN fighter jets in Turkey for export to Indonesia, emphasizing the integration of local capabilities. The Associated Press noted that this agreement was made during the Indo Defence 2025 exposition, highlighting the growing economic and defense ties between the two countries. The Independent echoed these sentiments, stating that the deal showcases Turkey's advancements in its domestic defense industry and praised Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's role in securing the agreement.
How we got here
The KAAN fighter jet, Turkey's first indigenous fifth-generation aircraft, completed its maiden flight in 2024. This agreement follows earlier collaborations between Turkey and Indonesia, including plans for a joint combat-drone factory.
Go deeper
- What are the specifications of the KAAN fighter jet?
- How will this deal affect Turkey's defense industry?
- What other countries are interested in the KAAN fighter jets?
More on these topics
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Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian peninsula in Western Asia, with a smaller portion on the Balkan peninsula in Southeastern Europe.
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Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania, between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It consists of more than seventeen thousand islands, including Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi, and New Guinea. Indonesia i
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Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo is an Indonesian politician, businessman and former Army lieutenant General who is the currently-appointed Minister of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia.