Indonesia to Buy KAAN Fighter Jet Only If Free of U.S. Components

Indonesia will purchase the Turkish fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet only if the aircraft contains no components subject to U.S. export controls.

This was reported by Cavok.

The requirement reflects Jakarta’s strategy to ensure autonomy and political independence in the use of its military assets, avoiding restrictions that could affect operations, future upgrades, or technology transfers.

ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) is a set of U.S. rules governing the export of defense equipment and technology, including products manufactured abroad that contain components, software, or know-how of American origin.

In practice, this means even systems developed by third parties may require Washington’s permission to sell, re-export, or modify — an issue many countries consider a strategic risk.

Indonesia has faced similar restrictions before, which explains its cautious approach today.

In 2025, Turkey and Indonesia signed a framework agreement worth about $15 billion for the potential export of the aircraft, paving the way for large-scale industrial cooperation, including procurement, local production, and technology transfer.

According to Mehmet Demiroglu, CEO of Turkish Aerospace Industries, the KAAN sale to Indonesia will proceed in three stages.

The first stage has already been formalized through the framework agreement, with subsequent stages planned for 2026. These steps are intended to allow the program to reach full industrial and operational scale.

For Indonesia, this requirement is part of a long-term air force development strategy.

Jakarta seeks not only a high-performance aircraft but also unrestricted access to maintenance, upgrades, and potential future modifications without relying on third-party approvals.

While negotiations continue, the KAAN program’s schedule and progress in developing Turkey’s domestic engine remain key factors for concluding a deal. Indonesia has indicated it is willing to wait for an ITAR-free configuration, despite the project’s strategic and industrial importance.