Turkey’s indigenous fighter jet, the National Combat Aircraft KAAN, has achieved a significant milestone in aviation history. During ground tests, KAAN’s engines successfully activated the afterburner system, a critical capability for high-speed performance. The fiery plume captured during the night test garnered widespread attention on social media.
A New Success in KAAN’s Ground Tests
During ground tests conducted at TUSAŞ facilities, KAAN operated at maximum power using two GE Aerospace F110-GE-129 jet engines. Although the technology demonstrator aircraft had already taken to the skies twice, the afterburner system had not been engaged during those flights. Activating the afterburners ahead of the third test flight marks a crucial step in advancing the jet’s engine performance.
TUSAŞ CEO: “A Triumph of Team Spirit”
TUSAŞ CEO Dr. Mehmet Demiroğlu commented on the development:
“We continue to leave our mark on aviation history! Activating a jet engine’s afterburner is not just a technical achievement but also a testament to discipline and team spirit. This success inspires us to build towards even greater goals for the future.”
What Is the Afterburner System?
The afterburner system, integrated into the jet engines of fighter aircraft, provides additional thrust for achieving high speeds, takeoff, or air combat scenarios. It functions by injecting fuel into the exhaust gases, significantly increasing thrust.
However, using the afterburner comes with a trade-off: a dramatic increase in fuel consumption. On average, a jet engine’s fuel usage can quadruple when the afterburner is engaged. Therefore, fighter jets use this system sparingly, only during critical moments.
KAAN’s Role in Turkey’s Aviation History
The first afterburner-equipped aircraft to join the Turkish Air Force was the F-100 Super Sabre. Now, as an entirely domestically produced fighter jet, KAAN represents Turkey’s vision for aviation independence.
© AeroHaber.com
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
