Turkish aircraft carrier of the future: KAAN deck as a symbol of technological independence

The plan to create a fifth-generation KAAN stealth fighter for the future aircraft carrier MUGEM

Turkey is entering a new era of its naval construction by announcing plans to create a carrier-based version of the fifth-generation KAAN stealth fighter for the future MUGEM aircraft carrier. This ambitious project is becoming an important stage in the formation of a full-fledged aircraft carrier potential of the country and a demonstration of the desire for technological independence.

Transferring KAAN to deck service is not an easy task. The fifth-generation fighter, being developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), must undergo significant changes to meet the requirements of aircraft carrier operations. This includes strengthening the landing gear structure to withstand impacts during landing, installing aerodynamic devices to improve low-speed handling, and modifying the engine to operate in marine conditions.

Special attention is paid to the ejection system and arrest landing, which differ significantly from ground procedures. These technologies require close cooperation between the Turkish Navy Design Bureau and TAI, as well as the possible involvement of foreign experts with experience in the field of aircraft carrier aviation.

The creation of its own aircraft carrier complex is of strategic importance for Ankara. The aircraft carrier MUGEM will become a symbol of naval power projection — the ability to project power beyond national waters. At the same time, the use of the indigenous product, the KAAN deck, will emphasize the technological maturity of the Turkish defense industry.

The project has several key objectives:

1. Ensuring independence from foreign suppliers of aviation equipment

2. Development of a high-tech domestic production base

3. Creation of a modern instrument to protect the country's maritime interests

4. Strengthening Turkey's role as a regional maritime power

However, the path to realizing this vision will be difficult. The need to master new technologies, create the appropriate infrastructure and train personnel will require significant investments and time. But if the project can be implemented, it will be a real breakthrough in the development of the Turkish armed forces.

Interestingly, the creation of the deck KAAN is taking place against the background of the general trend of global militarization of maritime zones. In this way, Turkey demonstrates its willingness to adapt to changing security conditions and assert its rights in key regions such as the Mediterranean and the Black Seas.

This step also shows how developing countries are increasingly striving to create their own advanced military technologies, abandoning dependence on traditional arms manufacturers. The KAAN project for MUGEM can be an example of a successful import substitution policy in the defense sector.

In the meantime, we are witnessing the beginning of a long-term process that can determine the future of Turkish naval power and the country's place in the global security system. The creation of the KAAN deck will be an important step along this path, demonstrating Ankara's ability to solve the most complex technical tasks in order to achieve strategic goals.