US Plans $700 Million Fighter Engine Deal for Turkey

The United States is planning a $700 million deal to supply fighter jet engines to Turkey, according to Reuters.

The proposed sale involves dozens of engines manufactured by GE Aerospace for Turkey's indigenous fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet program. The US Congress has 15 days to block the transaction if it objects.

The move is seen as a significant gesture toward Ankara ahead of the upcoming NATO summit, where defense cooperation is expected to feature prominently.

Turkey has been developing the KAAN fighter since 2017 as its national fifth-generation combat aircraft, following its removal from the US-led F-35 program. Serial production is scheduled to begin in 2028.

Turkish officials have previously said the KAAN is expected to outperform the F-35 in certain capabilities and eventually replace the country's ageing fleet of F-16 fighter jets.