After China’s introduction of its stealth J-35A fighter jet, Pakistan has reportedly initiated discussions with Turkey about acquiring the KAAN, a fifth-generation fighter jet. These talks took place during the eighth Pak-Turk Industrial Expo Joint Working Group meeting in Pakistan, where both countries explored opportunities for strengthening bilateral defense and industrial cooperation. The meeting included representatives from 32 institutions, including major defense companies from both nations.
At the heart of the discussions was the potential export of Turkey’s KAAN fighter jet to the Pakistani Air Force (PAF). As both nations continue to enhance their defense ties, the potential deal for the KAAN fighter is seen as a crucial step toward modernizing Pakistan’s air force. Along with the fighter jet deal, the two countries also reportedly discussed the design and co-development of an entirely new helicopter, further deepening their defense cooperation.
Pakistan and Turkey share a longstanding relationship as close allies, with both nations prioritizing the expansion of their defense cooperation. In 2021, the two countries formalized an agreement to boost joint arms manufacturing, which has since seen continued efforts to collaborate on defense projects. The KAAN jet export talks are a natural extension of this growing partnership, particularly as Turkey looks to secure international customers for its fifth-generation fighter while Pakistan seeks to modernize its aging air force fleet.
Reports in July 2023, including social media posts from Pakistani military bloggers, suggested that Pakistan was close to finalizing a contract to join the KAAN fighter jet project. While no formal agreement has been signed yet, the ongoing discussions between Pakistan and Turkey signal a deepening defense collaboration, potentially marking a new chapter in Pakistan’s air force modernization plans.