A monumental moment in Turkey’s defense industry has taken place. During the International Defense Industry Fair IDEF-2025, a historic export agreement was signed for the sale of 48 units of Turkey’s pride — the 5th generation National Combat Aircraft, KAAN — to Indonesia. This marks the largest defense export deal in the history of the Turkish Republic.
A Milestone in Turkish Defense Exports
A major agreement was sealed between Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) and the Ministry of Defense of Indonesia, finalizing the export of 48 KAAN fighter jets. The delivery of the aircraft is planned to be completed over the next 120 months (10 years).
This unprecedented export deal underscores Turkey’s technological advancements in defense and highlights its growing competitiveness on the international stage.
Powerful Messages from the Signing Ceremony
The historic signing ceremony at IDEF-2025 was attended by:
- Prof. Dr. Haluk Görgün, President of the Turkish Defense Industry Agency
- Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Minister of Defense of Indonesia
- Prof. Dr. Ömer Cihad Vardan, Chairman of the Board of TUSAŞ
- Şuay Alpay, Turkish Deputy Minister of Defense and Vice Chairman of TUSAŞ
- Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu, General Manager of TUSAŞ
Prof. Dr. Görgün stated:
“Another historic moment within history… This collaboration, blossoming under the leadership of Presidents Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Prabowo Subianto, is a strong indicator of Turkish-Indonesian friendship. It’s a vital step toward a long-term and sustainable partnership.”
Partnership Foundations Laid in April 2025
This strategic cooperation began during President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Turkey in April 2025, when he expressed Indonesia’s interest in joining the KAAN project. His statements reflected strong confidence in Turkey’s defense capabilities. Months of diplomatic and technical talks followed, leading to this landmark agreement.
KAAN: Turkey’s 5th Generation Fighter Jet
Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ), KAAN represents a breakthrough that places Turkey among the limited number of countries capable of producing 5th generation fighter aircraft.
Key features of KAAN include:
- Superior maneuverability
- Advanced aerodynamic structure
- High survivability
- Smart combat systems
- Better heat signature management than the F-35
- Larger payload capacity
President Erdoğan: “A Proud Achievement”
Speaking on June 11, 2025, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said:
“Our National Combat Aircraft KAAN will be produced in Turkey and exported to our friendly and brotherly nation Indonesia. The project will also utilize Indonesia’s local capabilities. I believe this agreement reflects the success of our national defense industry and wish prosperity to both nations.”
A Strategic, Long-Term Collaboration
This agreement is not just a sale but the beginning of a long-term strategic partnership in the defense sector between Turkey and Indonesia. Plans include establishing local industrial infrastructure in Indonesia, along with joint efforts in manufacturing and engineering, further strengthening the project.
Turkey: A Rising Star in Global Defense
The KAAN project and its export to Indonesia serve as solid proof of Turkey’s ascent in the global defense arena. By developing its own advanced technologies, Turkey is now a key player in the global arms market, setting an example for emerging defense nations.
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