AviationNews – Turkey’s indigenous 5th-generation combat aircraft, KAAN, has officially commenced intensive runway taxi trials to prepare for its next critical flight test campaign. Conducted at the facilities of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) in Ankara, the ground tests mark a major step forward in transitioning the stealth fighter from early proof-of-concept flight testing into a production-representative developmental fleet.
The latest testing phase features the P1 prototype, the second flying airframe produced under the National Combat Aircraft (MMU) program launched to replace the Turkish Air Force‘s aging F-16 fleet. Following the maiden flight of the initial P0 demonstrator in February 2024, TAI unveiled the upgraded P1 and P2 airframes in early 2026. On July 31, 2026, defense officials released footage showing P1 moving along the runway under its own power, testing fundamental flight systems, braking, and steering mechanisms at varying speeds before taking to the skies.
Operationally, the twin-engine KAAN incorporates low-observable radar-stealth geometry, advanced internal weapons bays, and an indigenous Active Electronically Scanned Array (ASELSAN MURAD AESA) radar. The new P1 prototype introduces refined aerodynamic contours, improved engine intake geometries, updated landing gear, and production-ready flight control software. Initial test models rely on twin General Electric F110 turbofans while Turkey continues developing its domestic TF35000 engine for long-term production units.
Addressing the program’s progress, TAI Chief Executive Officer Mehmet Demiroğlu underscored the strategic importance of expanding ground and flight testing across multiple prototypes: “Deploying advanced prototypes like P1 allows our engineering teams to test flight control systems, avionics, and mission capabilities in parallel,” Demiroğlu noted, adding that company goals remain set on achieving P1‘s maiden flight within months and introducing P2 before the end of the year.
Looking ahead, TAI targets initiating initial aircraft deliveries to the Turkish Air Force by 2028, with full-rate production expanding into the early 2030s. The stealth fighter is designed to operate seamlessly alongside unmanned combat air vehicles such as the ANKA-3 and Bayraktar Kızılelma to form integrated crewed-unmanned teaming capabilities. Defense partners and international aerospace buyers can monitor upcoming maiden flight schedules and ground testing updates through Turkish Aerospace Industries‘ official media channels.
The rollout of powered taxi tests for the KAAN P1 prototype signals rapid maturity in Turkey‘s domestic defense manufacturing sector. By fielding multiple developmental test aircraft, TAI accelerates system validation and reduces schedule risk toward serial manufacturing. This milestone reinforces Ankara‘s goal of securing air superiority and defense independence in next-generation fighter technology.
