The TAI KAAN, previously known as the TF-X and MMU (Milli Muharip Uçak, "National Combat Aircraft"), is a fifth-generation stealth, twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). Approved in 2010 and formally contracted in 2016, the program aims to replace the Turkish Air Force's F-16 Fighting Falcons, with BAE Systems providing design assistance under a 2017 agreement.
Design
The KAAN features internal weapons bays, an airframe optimized for low radar cross-section, and supercruise ambitions. TAI's preliminary specifications list a length of 20.3 m, a maximum takeoff weight of 34,750 kg, a top speed of Mach 1.8, and a 16,764 m service ceiling. Prototypes and initial Block 10 aircraft use two General Electric F110-GE-129 turbofans of 131 kN each in afterburner, pending the indigenous TEI TF35000 engine planned after 2030. The sensor suite includes ASELSAN's MURAD AESA radar, distributed electro-optical apertures, and provisions for controlling unmanned wingmen such as the Anka-3 and Kızılelma.
The first prototype, P0, flew on 21 February 2024 at Mürted Airfield. In February 2026 TAI unveiled three prototypes, with the redesigned P1 expected to fly in mid-to-late 2026 and six prototypes planned in total. In June 2026 the United States moved to approve a $705 million export of F110 engines for KAAN Block 10. The Turkish Air Force plans around 100 aircraft and placed its first order, for 20 Block 10 jets, at the SAHA 2026 exhibition in May 2026, with deliveries targeted from 2028; Indonesia signed for 48 aircraft in July 2025, alongside Egyptian participation in the program.