The global showcase of the Turkish defense industry, World Defence Show (WDS) 2026, opened its doors in Riyadh, with the most talked-about image coming from the TUSAŞ stand. The National Combat Aircraft KAAN was displayed with the Saudi Arabian flag on its tail alongside the Turkish flag. TUSAŞ declared the future air warfare doctrine to the world in Riyadh, presenting not just an aircraft, but a "Manned-Unmanned Teaming" (MUM-T) concept consisting of KAAN and two ANKA-3s.
The warm winds blowing between Türkiye and Saudi Arabia in the defense industry turned into a strategic partnership message at WDS 2026. TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace) exhibited the 5th generation fighter jet KAAN, adorned with the colors of the host country. However, the real show was not in the static area, but in the special interactive simulation zone. TUSAŞ presented a live demo to participants, showcasing how KAAN manages unmanned combat aircraft, often referred to as "Super Şimşek" (Loyal Wingman).
The Saudi Message on KAAN's Tail
In international fairs, the tail liveries of strategic platforms usually symbolize an export goal or an existing partnership with that country. TUSAŞ's decision to embroider the Saudi Arabian flag on the vertical stabilizer of KAAN, Türkiye's most strategic project, was interpreted as the strongest signal that the giant defense cooperation started with the AKINCI UCAV could be carried to the National Combat Aircraft level.
This livery, which became the center of attention for visitors, is evaluated as a diplomatic "green light" regarding Saudi Arabia's potential interest or partnership in the KAAN project.
6th Generation Concept: Deep Strike Team
TUSAŞ exhibited not only the aircraft itself but also its "mind" at the fair. In a special moving setup prepared for the event, one KAAN was shown in formation flight accompanied by two ANKA-3 (Stealth Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles).
This concept is known in aviation literature as MUM-T (Manned-Unmanned Teaming). According to TUSAŞ's presentation:
- Command Center: The KAAN pilot flies not only their own aircraft but also manages the accompanying ANKA-3s via touch screens and helmet-mounted cueing systems.
- Loyal Wingman: Equipped with stealth capabilities, ANKA-3 drones fly ahead of KAAN, destroying risky air defense systems or acting as decoys to ensure KAAN's safety.
Interactive Show in Riyadh
On the giant screen set up in the fairground, KAAN's cockpit interface was simulated. Visitors watched how the pilot directed ANKA-3s to targets detected on KAAN's radar with a single touch and how they executed deep strike missions.
This demo by TUSAŞ proves that KAAN is not just an aircraft, but a flying command center managing the unmanned elements around it. This capability stands out as the most critical feature elevating KAAN from 5th generation to 6th generation fighter jet standards.
