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As part of its broader “Rearm Europe” initiative, the European Union has been seeking to reduce strategic dependence on the United States
Spain-Turkey military ties deepen with KAAN interest. (Wikipedia)
In a move that could redefine the balance of power in European defence, Spain has reportedly turned down the United States’ F-35 stealth fighter jet and is now showing serious interest in Turkey’s indigenously developed KAAN aircraft. The decision, driven by mounting costs, software flaws, and operational concerns, marks a rare public blow to America’s military aviation dominance in Europe.
According to reports published in the Spanish business daily El Economista, Madrid is exploring the possibility of acquiring the Turkish-made KAAN fighter jet, a fifth-generation combat aircraft designed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS). The aircraft, which completed its maiden flight in February 2024, has already caught international attention for its stealth design, advanced avionics, and twin air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities.
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Europe’s Disenchantment With F-35
Spain’s rejection of the F-35 comes at a time when a number of nations, including Canada, Switzerland, and Portugal, are also reconsidering their association with the US programme. The reasons are strikingly similar: escalating costs, frequent software malfunctions, and America’s tight control over the aircraft’s sensitive source code. Several European governments have accused the US of creating a form of “digital dependence”, as maintenance, upgrades, and critical operations of the F-35 remain tied to American systems.
As part of its broader “Rearm Europe” initiative, the European Union has been seeking to reduce strategic dependence on the United States, a sentiment that appears to be gaining traction within the Spanish defence establishment.
KAAN: The Rising Turkish Alternative
Turkey’s KAAN programme, spearheaded by TUSAS, aims to provide a homegrown alternative to Western fighter platforms. The Turkish government has announced plans to induct at least 20 of the jets into its air force by 2028. “The KAAN is a better aircraft than the F-35,” TUSAS CEO Temel Kotil declared earlier this year, underscoring Turkey’s growing confidence in its indigenous defence capabilities.
Indonesia has already become the first international customer, signing a contract for 48 KAAN aircraft with delivery expected over the next decade. Reports suggest that Spain could now emerge as the second foreign buyer, a development that would mark Turkey’s most significant defence export milestone yet.
Spain’s Changing Defence Priorities
Spain had earmarked €6.25 billion (roughly Rs 647.68 billion) in its 2023 defence budget for the acquisition of next-generation fighter jets to replace its aging fleet of F-18s and F-5s. Initially, the country was expected to choose between upgrading its Eurofighter Typhoons or joining the European Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme. However, internal disputes between France’s Dassault Aviation and Germany’s Airbus Defence have brought FCAS to a virtual standstill.
Test flights that were initially scheduled between 2027 and 2029 have now been indefinitely delayed. Both The Financial Times and The Economic Times have reported that the FCAS programme could face a complete collapse, leaving Spain with limited alternatives. Against this backdrop, Turkey’s KAAN, with its aggressive development schedule and regional interoperability, has emerged as a compelling option.
Strengthening Spain-Turkey Ties
The latest developments come amid deepening defence cooperation between Spain and Turkey. In December 2024, the two nations inked a deal for 24 Hürjet advanced trainer aircraft, followed by Spain’s approval in September 2025 to purchase an additional 45 Hürjets worth approximately €3.68 billion (approx. Rs 381.24 billion). A potential KAAN agreement would not only consolidate this growing partnership but also signify Spain’s pivot toward a more diversified defence procurement strategy.
A Blow to US Influence
Analysts view Spain’s turn toward Turkey as a strategic setback for the US. The F-35, once seen as the uncontested standard for next-generation air combat, is increasingly facing resistance even from NATO allies. Europe’s growing inclination to chart its own path, technologically and militarily, reflects shifting alliances in the post-Ukraine geopolitical landscape.
Spain
October 06, 2025, 14:45 IST
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