Turkey’s fifth-generation Kaan fighter program faces a significant strategic bottleneck as it continues to rely on American-made propulsion. While the program aims to establish domestic air superiority, the aircraft currently utilizes the General Electric F110 engine. This reliance stems from the aircraft’s early development requirements, as officials initially turned to the F110 to maintain progress following Turkey’s exclusion from the F-35 program.
Technical constraints currently limit the utility of the F110 in the Kaan platform. Industry reports indicate that the engine lacks the advanced infrared masking and specialized nozzle geometry necessary for true low-observable performance. Furthermore, the F110 output of 29,500 pounds of thrust falls short of the airframe’s long-term performance targets.
To address this, Tusaş Engine Industries is developing the indigenous TF35000 turbofan, which is expected to deliver 35,000 pounds of thrust and supercruise capabilities by 2032. However, pending contract negotiations for additional U.S. units and the specific requirements of export partners like Indonesia complicate the timeline. Until the domestic engine matures, the program remains tethered to foreign supply chains, creating ongoing uncertainty for future production blocks.