Turkey Seeks U.S. Engines for KAAN Fighter Ahead of NATO Summit

Turkey is seeking U.S. approval to acquire dozens of F110 fighter jet engines for its KAAN stealth fighter program during the July 7-8 NATO summit in Ankara. The engines would support additional prototypes of the twin-engine aircraft being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries to replace the country's F-16 fleet.

Officials have already received an initial batch of 10 engines and have discussed acquiring 80 more.

The summit will bring together leaders from the 32 NATO member states. Last month, the U.S. president indicated willingness to assist Turkey with the engine acquisition when asked about the matter. Analysts expect the visit could clear prior obstacles that had delayed the supply of additional engines needed to expand the number of KAAN platforms.

2017 purchase of a Russian S-400 missile defense system led to its removal from the F-35 program in 2019 and the imposition of CAATSA sanctions the following year. Officials have stated that congressional approval is still required to lift those sanctions.

The F-35 exclusion has prompted Ankara to accelerate domestic defense projects, including the KAAN program, which is intended to eventually use a Turkish-designed engine still in early development.

Indonesia has signed a $10 billion contract for 48 KAAN fighters. Officials have noted possible interest from other countries, though further technical and diplomatic steps would be needed before additional sales could proceed. Resolving the F-35 issue would require Turkey to relinquish the S-400 system, an action that would need Russian approval and has not been under consideration.

Congressional action on sanctions relief would also be necessary.