Egypt explores joint production of Türkiye’s KAAN fighter

CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egypt is reportedly considering a partnership with Türkiye to manufacture the KAAN fifth-generation fighter domestically, potentially giving Cairo a role in producing an advanced stealth aircraft rather than relying solely on foreign suppliers.

According to Daliy News of Türkiye, reports that emerged in 2025 and gained momentum in 2026 indicate that discussions could involve technology transfer, a joint production line and eventual procurement of KAAN aircraft for the Egyptian Air Force.

If implemented, the arrangement would make Egypt the first African country involved in producing a fifth-generation fighter and deepen the growing defense relationship between Cairo and Ankara.

Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, KAAN was initially known as the TF-X or National Combat Aircraft program. The twin-engine aircraft is designed with low-observable features, internal weapons bays and an AESA radar. It completed its first flight in February 2024, lasting about 13 minutes.

The aircraft currently uses two General Electric F110 engines, while Türkiye is developing an indigenous turbofan intended to power future versions. Turkish authorities have targeted serial production around 2028 and operational deployment toward the end of the decade.

Egypt’s interest comes as Cairo continues to diversify its military suppliers. Its air force operates a large fleet of American F-16s alongside French Rafales, Russian MiG-29Ms and older aircraft from other suppliers.

The diversification strategy has allowed Egypt to avoid becoming excessively dependent on a single foreign power for advanced military equipment. The KAAN could provide another option as Egypt seeks greater technological and industrial independence.

Türkiye and Egypt have also undergone a significant diplomatic rapprochement after years of strained relations.

Ties began improving through talks from 2021, followed by the restoration of ambassadorial relations in 2023 and reciprocal presidential visits in 2024. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi expressed interest in the KAAN during the reconciliation process.

The potential partnership could also expand Türkiye’s growing international fighter program. Indonesia agreed in 2025 to purchase 48 KAAN aircraft in a deal reportedly worth about $10 billion, including provisions for local assembly and technology cooperation. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have also shown interest in the aircraft.

For Türkiye, additional partners could help distribute development costs, expand production and strengthen the fighter’s position in the international defense market.

For Egypt, participation could provide access to fifth-generation aircraft technology that has remained largely restricted to countries closely aligned with the United States.

However, significant obstacles remain. KAAN is still undergoing development and has limited flight experience compared with established combat aircraft.

Its current dependence on American F110 engines could also complicate exports because third-country sales and transfers require U.S. approval.

Türkiye’s planned indigenous engine could eventually reduce that dependence, but the powerplant is not expected to become available until the early 2030s.

The financial requirements of establishing a joint production facility and acquiring the aircraft could also pose challenges for Egypt. Much of the reported cooperation remains at the level of discussions, understandings or plans rather than finalized production contracts.

Nevertheless, the reported interest marks a potentially important shift in Egypt’s defense-industrial strategy. Instead of remaining primarily an importer of advanced combat aircraft, Cairo could seek a role in manufacturing and developing next-generation military technology.