A major milestone has been reached in Türkiye’s National Combat Aircraft KAAN program under the coordination of the Presidency of Defense Industries (SSB). The KAAN Technology Facility, constructed by HAVELSAN within the premises of TUSAŞ, is set to serve as the “digital brain” development center of the next-generation fighter jet. According to Haluk Görgün, the facility will accelerate engineering processes while reinforcing verification, validation, and testing disciplines for the KAAN project.

Speaking at the SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle commissioning ceremony attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Görgün emphasized the transformative impact of data-driven, network-centric, and software-defined defense systems. He underlined that artificial intelligence has become a strategic force multiplier, enabling faster, more accurate, and predictive decision-making within command-and-control chains by processing vast amounts of data from sensors, networks, and operational platforms.

The KAAN Technology Facility will focus on strengthening the aircraft’s digital architecture, including mission computers, sensor fusion systems, AI-supported decision algorithms, advanced simulation tools, and integrated testing infrastructures. These capabilities will not only enhance KAAN’s operational effectiveness but also ensure faster certification and system integration processes. In modern warfare, platform deterrence is no longer defined solely by hardware performance but by the sophistication of software and integration capabilities.

Additionally, the inauguration of the Naval Combat Management Systems Center and the foundation of the Simulator Integration and Production Hangar reflect Türkiye’s holistic transformation in defense technologies. While AI-enabled command-and-control solutions will be developed for naval platforms, advanced simulation infrastructures will support training and physical condition testing processes domestically. These strategic investments further strengthen Türkiye’s defense ecosystem, boosting engineering capacity, technological independence, and high-value production capabilities in line with the National Technology Initiative vision.