Countdown for the first flight of the national warplane KAAN
The Ministry of National Defense in Türkiye has provided information on various defense-related matters. Minister Yaşar Güler is set to discuss Eurofighter procurement with the UK Defense Secretary, emphasizing that the ongoing process prioritizes F16 acquisition for the Air Force. The focus on Eurofighter is the only other aircraft being considered, with Türkiye expressing its desire to procure 40 top-model aircraft through the UK. Additionally, details about the first flight of the National Combat Aircraft KAAN on December 27 were disclosed.
- Middle East
- Agencies and A News
- Published Date: 10:58 | 23 November 2023
- Modified Date: 10:59 | 23 November 2023
According to information from sources in the Ministry of National Defense, it was stated that today the Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler will meet with the UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps.
They will discuss the current status of the Eurofighter procurement and the evaluations regarding the claim circulating on social media about the purchase of "second-hand Eurofighters." In response to questions, sources mentioned that the process for the procurement of F16s to meet the Air Force's aircraft needs is prioritized, and technical meetings with the United States have been completed.
"WE ARE ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF EUROFIGHTER PROCUREMENT THROUGH THE UK"
Sources also conveyed, as Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler stated, that they are examining the Eurofighter aircraft produced by the consortium of the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, and Italy.
They emphasized, "While the process of F16 procurement and modernization is ongoing, the only aircraft we are focusing on is the Eurofighter.
We have no other work on this matter. The issue of Eurofighter procurement is also on the agenda of the meeting between the two ministers today.
We are addressing the procurement issue through the United Kingdom. They express their willingness to assist in lifting Germany's objections in this regard.
As Türkiye , we have expressed our desire to acquire 40 aircraft, initially 20 and then another 20. The aircraft we will acquire are definitely not second-hand. Our request is to acquire the top model."
KAAN'S FIRST FLIGHT SCHEDULED FOR DECEMBER 27
Providing information about the National Combat Aircraft KAAN, sources said, "The first flight of KAAN is planned to take place on December 27. According to the schedule, the domestic engine will be ready in 2028, and KAAN is expected to enter service from 2032 onwards."
"IT IS NOT POSSIBLE FOR TÜRKIYE TO ENGAGE IN ANY ACTIVITY THAT WOULD HARM OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN GAZA"
Responding to questions about the claim that "US planes landing in Incirlik carry weapons to Israel via South Cyprus," sources stated, "It is out of the question for Türkiye to be involved in any activity that would harm our brothers and sisters in Gaza or turn a blind eye to these activities.
The stance of the Republic of Türkiye on this matter is clear." Sources emphasized the need to be cautious against perception operations aimed at misleading the public and not to give credence to such allegations.
On a journalist's question about the compatibility of KAAN with NATO, sources highlighted that all our domestic and national defense industry products are produced above NATO standards.