Turkey achieved a significant milestone in its defense capabilities on February 21, 2024, as the TAI TF Kaan National Combat Aircraft (MMU) completed its maiden flight, lasting approximately 11 minutes. This accomplishment marks a pivotal moment for the country's defense industry, positioning Turkey among the elite nations capable of manufacturing 5th-generation fighter jets.
Initiated in 2016 to replace the aging F-16 fleet, the TF Kaan program faced challenges and delays, exacerbated by Turkey's expulsion from the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program in 2019 due to the acquisition of Russian S-400 air defense missiles. Despite these setbacks, the successful test flight is a testament to Turkey's commitment to modernize its air force.
The TF Kaan, also known as the "Supreme Ruler," is a stealth twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries in collaboration with the UK's BAE Systems. The aircraft aims to possess advanced avionics, stealth capabilities, and the ability to undertake command roles in battle, placing it in the league of 5th-generation fighter jets.
Reports reveal that the test pilot, Barbaros Demirbas, piloted the Kaan to a he...
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