Türkiye has initiated preliminary government-to-government discussions with Spain regarding a possible sale of its KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet, according to Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) CEO Mehmet Demiroğlu during the SAHA 2026 defense exhibition in Istanbul. Officials confirmed that the talks began after the Spanish Air Force requested detailed information on advanced fifth-generation combat aircraft.
Demiroğlu stated that the engagement marks an early but significant step in defense cooperation between the two NATO allies. However, he clarified that negotiations remain in the initial stages and no formal agreement has yet been reached.
Spain reassesses fighter strategy amid program delays
Spain has reportedly shifted its procurement strategy after abandoning plans to acquire F-35 fighter jets. Additionally, delays in the multinational Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, now expected to extend into the 2040s, have increased Madrid’s need for an interim solution.
As a result, Spanish defense planners are exploring alternative fifth-generation platforms to bridge their operational gap. Türkiye’s KAAN program has emerged as one of the options under consideration, especially as Spain has already committed to purchasing 30 Hürjet advanced trainer aircraft from Türkiye in a deal valued at €2.6 billion.
Moreover, defense analysts suggest that growing industrial cooperation between the two countries could support further discussions on advanced military aviation systems.
KAAN export prospects expand amid international interest
If finalized, the agreement would mark the first export of Türkiye’s KAAN fifth-generation fighter to a NATO and European Union member state. This would represent a major milestone for Türkiye’s defense industry and its expanding aerospace ambitions.
Meanwhile, Indonesia has already placed an order for 48 KAAN fighter jets, signaling rising international interest in the platform. Experts noted that successful exports could strengthen Türkiye’s position in the global defense market and increase competition among next-generation fighter programs.
Furthermore, industry observers emphasized that ongoing talks with Spain may influence future cooperation in aerospace development and defense technology sharing between allied nations.
