Turkey's latest Kaan fighter prototype, designated P1, has begun powered taxi tests. This milestone brings the aircraft closer to its maiden flight, expected within the next couple of months. The P1 prototype is a more representative development aircraft than the initial P0 prototype, which made its first flight in February 2024.
The P1 incorporates several visible refinements, including revised control surfaces and a cleaner external finish. It is also expected to feature more representative avionics, flight-control software, and mission systems than the P0. A third prototype, P2, is under assembly, with the company aiming to have both aircraft flying before the end of this year.
The Kaan program aims to deliver a reduced-radar-signature fighter with high performance, advanced avionics, and modern mission systems. While it faces significant challenges, the program has made notable progress, with initial deliveries to the Turkish Air Force targeted for 2028.
