Science & Tech · Science & Environment · 2 hrs ago
KAAN P1 prototype could fly before the end of the year
Turkey's TUSAŞ is preparing the P1 prototype of its KAAN fighter jet for its first flight before the end of the year.
The aircraft has completed system checks and low-speed taxi tests, which assess how it moves on the ground.
High-speed taxi trials are due after more ground testing, and the flight plan depends on tests going ahead without delays or setbacks.
KAAN's earlier P0 aircraft flew twice in 2024, but the planned flight would be the first for the P1 prototype.
TUSAŞ plans to build six prototypes as part of the fighter's development program.
Initial deliveries to the Turkish Air Force are targeted from late 2028, although the schedule could depend on how testing proceeds.
TUSAŞ is preparing the P1 prototype of its KAAN fighter jet for a first flight targeted before the end of 2026.
General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu said P1 had completed system checks and low-speed taxi tests.
High-speed taxi trials are planned after further ground testing, and the flight schedule depends on tests proceeding without setbacks or delays.
Work is also continuing on the P2 prototype, and TUSAŞ plans to build six prototypes for the development program.
Initial deliveries to the Turkish Air Force are targeted from late 2028.
- Who
- Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) is preparing the aircraft. General Manager Mehmet Demiroğlu reported on the tests.
- What
- The P1 prototype of the KAAN fighter jet is being prepared for its first flight.
- When
- The first flight is targeted before the end of 2026.
- Where
- Demiroğlu spoke at Teknofest in Şanlıurfa.
- Why
- It is part of the KAAN development program.
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The earlier P0 aircraft made its first flight, staying airborne for 13 minutes and reaching 8,000 feet.
P0 made its second flight, lasting 14 minutes and reaching 10,000 feet.
Demiroğlu said P1 had completed system checks and low-speed taxi tests at Teknofest in Şanlıurfa.
TUSAŞ is targeting P1’s first flight, dependent on testing proceeding without setbacks or delays.
- Prototype
- P1
- First-flight target
- Before the end of 2026
- Completed tests
- System checks and low-speed taxi tests
- Prototype program
- TUSAŞ plans to build six prototypes
- Initial deliveries
- Turkish Air Force, targeted from late 2028