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| KAAN |
The race for air superiority in the 21st century is heating up. At the center of this competition stand two advanced fifth-generation fighters: the Turkish KAAN and the AmericanF-35 Lightning II. While the F-35 has already proven itself in combat and is flying with multiple air forces, the KAAN is emerging as a bold contender, representing Turkey’s growing ambitions in the defense industry.
So, the question that excites aviation enthusiasts and defense analysts alike is: Can KAAN challenge the dominance of the F-35?
KAAN: Turkey’s Rising Star
The KAAN fighter jet (formerly known as TF-X) is Turkey’s homegrown fifth-generation stealth aircraft developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). The aircraft first flew in February 2024, marking a historic milestone for the Turkish defense sector. Since then, additional prototypes, including P1, P2, and P3, have been under development, with more flight tests scheduled for late 2025. Turkey has ambitious plans to begin serial production around 2028–2029, with the Turkish Air Force expected to be the first recipient.
Currently, the KAAN uses the General Electric F110 engine, but Turkey is working on an indigenous powerplant known as the TF35000. This new engine is expected to undergo tests by 2026 and could be fully integrated by 2032, which would give the KAAN complete independence from foreign suppliers.
On the international stage, the KAAN is already gaining traction. Indonesia has signed a landmark deal worth $10 billion for 48 aircraft, including local production and full technology transfer. Egypt has also been approved to join the program, with a formal agreement expected by the end of 2025. Several other countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine, have shown interest in the jet. For Turkey, the KAAN is not just about replacing its aging F-16s but also about establishing strategic independence and positioning itself as a serious exporter in the global fighter market.
F-35 Lightning II: The Proven Powerhouse
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| F-35 Lighting-II |
The F-35 Lightning II, built by Lockheed Martin, has been operational since 2015 and is widely recognized as the most advanced multirole stealth fighter in service today. Unlike KAAN, which is still in its early testing stages, the F-35 has already been delivered to and deployed by many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, Israel, South Korea, and Australia.
The F-35 comes in three distinct variants. The F-35A is designed for conventional takeoff and landing, the F-35B offers short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, and the F-35C is built for carrier-based operations. Each variant provides flexibility to meet the diverse needs of allied nations.
At its core, the F-35 is powered by the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, one of the most powerful fighter engines in existence. It is also equipped with some of the world’s most advanced avionics, including the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, the Distributed Aperture System (DAS), and the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS). Together, these systems provide pilots with unmatched situational awareness and targeting precision. Unlike KAAN, which is still preparing for its first export deliveries, the F-35 has already been combat-tested in multiple real-world missions and military exercises, solidifying its reputation as today’s benchmark fighter.
KAAN vs F-35: A Head-to-Head Comparison
When comparing stealth and sensors, the F-35 clearly holds the upper hand. Its radar-absorbing materials and carefully engineered design give it one of the lowest radar cross-sections in the world. Combined with advanced avionics, the F-35 is considered the gold standard in modern stealth. KAAN, on the other hand, is being designed with stealth shaping and internal weapons bays, but since it is still undergoing trials, its real-world stealth performance remains unproven.
In terms of engines and performance, the two jets take different approaches. The F-35 relies on a single but incredibly powerful F135 engine, which provides excellent acceleration and reliability. The KAAN, in contrast, is a twin-engine aircraft. This design gives it greater thrust and redundancy, which could improve survivability in combat. However, the KAAN still relies on imported engines for now, with its indigenous TF35000 engine expected only by the early 2030s.
Avionics and combat systems are another area where the F-35 currently dominates. Its AN/APG-81 AESA radar, DAS, and sensor fusion technology give pilots a complete 360-degree awareness in battle. The KAAN is expected to integrate advanced Turkish radar and electronic warfare systems, but until more testing is completed, these systems remain largely theoretical.
When it comes to weapons and payload, the F-35 has the advantage of being compatible with a wide range of U.S. and allied precision-guided munitions. It can carry weapons internally during stealth missions or externally when maximum payload is required. The KAAN will primarily use Turkish-developed systems such as the SOM cruise missile and Gökdoğan air-to-air missiles, while also remaining compatible with NATO weapons.
Cost and export potential may be where KAAN finds its greatest opportunity. The F-35 typically costs between $80 million and $100 million per unit, and its sales are restricted to U.S. allies and approved partners. The KAAN is expected to be more affordable and less politically constrained, making it a very attractive option for countries that are unable to access American technology.
Which Jet is Better?
The answer depends largely on perspective. If the requirement is for a combat-proven stealth jet that is ready for action today, the F-35 is undoubtedly the better choice. Its advanced technology, global deployment, and battlefield record make it unmatched in the present.
However, if the focus is on future potential, cost-effectiveness, and defense independence, the KAAN stands out as a strong contender. With confirmed export deals, international interest, and the possibility of an indigenous engine, KAAN could evolve into a serious rival to the F-35 within the next decade.
Conclusion
At present, the F-35 Lightning II remains the undisputed leader in the fifth-generation fighter category, offering unparalleled stealth, combat systems, and operational experience. But the KAAN program is rapidly gaining ground, backed by ambitious development goals, international partnerships, and a growing export market.
In the short term, the F-35 continues to dominate the skies. Yet by the late 2020s and early 2030s, KAAN may emerge as the cost-effective, export-friendly alternative that challenges the F-35’s stronghold in the global fighter market.
FAQs
Is KAAN already operational?
No, KAAN is still in the testing phase. Serial production is planned to begin in 2028–2029.Which countries have ordered KAAN?
Indonesia has ordered 48 jets, and Egypt has joined the program. Several other countries are exploring participation.How much does the F-35 cost compared to KAAN?
The F-35 costs between $80 and $100 million per aircraft. KAAN is expected to be cheaper, making it more attractive for emerging economies.Can KAAN outperform the F-35?
Not today. The F-35 remains combat-proven and technologically ahead. However, KAAN has strong potential to catch up in the 2030s as its development matures.
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