Spain’s decision to abandon plans to purchase F-35 fighter jets —citing technological restrictions imposed by the U.S., high maintenance costs, and rising prices—has led the country to explore new options for its defense strategy. In a statement issued on August 6, 2025, the Spanish Ministry of Defense indicated that it was not considering the option of purchasing 50 F-35s, but would instead choose between the Eurofighter and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS). However, recent reports indicate that Spain’s interest has shifted toward KAAN, the fifth-generation fighter jet developed by Turkey.
KAAN: Next-Generation Fighter Jet on Spain’s Radar
According to reports citing the newspapers El Universo and El Economista, Spain—which canceled its purchase of F-35s from the U.S.—is showing serious interest in Turkey’s national pride, the KAAN project. Developed as a National Fighter Aircraft, the KAAN aims to be an air superiority fighter that will replace the F-16.
According to El Economista, Spain is considering purchasing these aircraft, which are scheduled to enter service starting in 2030. The Spanish government’s interest demonstrates its desire to take an independent and strategic step in defense procurement, despite reactions from the U.S.
Strategic Complementary Role: Will Buy Time for FCAS Preparations
The potential acquisition of the KAAN holds strategic importance for Spain. According to El Economista, the KAAN could serve as a complementary model to the Spanish Air Force’s current Eurofighter fleet. This will allow Spain to buy time by maintaining the modern air power it needs until its own next-generation fighter jet project, FCAS (Future Combat Air System), is ready.
If this potential purchase goes through, it will mark the second major rapprochement between Turkey and Spain this year. This is because, in May, as part of the modernization of its F-5 training aircraft stationed in Talavera la Real, Spain had turned to procuring Turkey’s HÜRJET, a jet trainer and light attack aircraft. This development demonstrates that Turkey’s defense industry products have become a reliable and technologically advanced option for European countries.
