In a significant deal for Turkey’s defense sector, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced that Turkey will export 48 of its domestically produced KAAN fighter jets to Indonesia. This marks the first export agreement for these advanced fighter jets, which are still in the development phase. The announcement was made via Erdogan’s social media account, where he highlighted that the production process of these jets will incorporate Indonesia’s local capabilities.
The announcement was made around the Indo Defence 2025 exposition in Jakarta, which highlights the significance of this agreement in demonstrating the capabilities of Turkey’s domestic defense industry. Erdogan expressed his appreciation for Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, underscoring his pivotal role in the successful reaching of this agreement.
In a ceremony attended by both Turkish and Indonesian officials, Indonesia’s Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Haluk Gorgun, the Turkish Defense Industry Secretary, signed the purchase agreement for the KAAN jets. President Subianto, on his part, has focused on bolstering Indonesia’s defense capabilities, primarily through acquisition of military hardware including submarines, frigates, and fighter jets, while also enhancing defense cooperation with multiple countries.
While Erdogan did not provide financial specifics of the deal, it has been reported in local media that the agreement is valued at approximately $10 billion. The defense ministry has yet to respond with further comments or confirmation regarding the financial aspects of Erdogan’s announcement.
This move is part of Indonesia’s broader initiative to upgrade its military capabilities and modernize its defense systems. Since taking office as the defense minister in 2019, Subianto has been actively seeking new defense technologies and resources by engaging with countries like China, the U.S., Russia, France, and Turkey.
The current fleet of the Indonesian Air Force is quite diverse, comprising aircraft from several nations, including the U.S., Russia, and Britain. Many of these aircraft are nearing the point where they require replacement or upgrading. The introduction of the Turkish-made KAAN fighter jet, which made its maiden flight in 2024, and expected for initial delivery by 2028, represents a significant step in this modernization drive.
This deal is taking place against the backdrop of increasing economic and defense collaboration between Indonesia and Turkey. Earlier this year, both countries agreed to co-develop a Baykar combat-drone factory in Indonesia, reflecting a broader trend of strengthening bilateral ties. Other countries with robust defense ties with Turkey, such as Pakistan and Azerbaijan, have shown interest in the KAAN fighter jets as well.