Shankh Air Preps for UP Launch as Saudi Arabia Eyes Turkiye's Kaan Fighter

Recent developments across the globe highlight significant shifts in both commercial and military aviation, from the launch of new regional carriers in India to strategic acquisitions of next-generation fighter jets in the Middle East.

Shankh Airlines Spearheads Uttar Pradesh Aviation Growth

A new airline, Shankh Air, is preparing to launch operations, positioning itself as the first home-grown carrier for the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh (UP). Founded by Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, the airline has received its No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and is targeting the first quarter of 2026 for its inaugural flights. According to The Economic Times, the airline will begin with an initial fleet of three Airbus aircraft.

The launch comes as Uttar Pradesh undergoes a major aviation infrastructure boom. The state government has proposed a significant budget of ₹2,111 crore for the civil aviation sector in 2026-27. This funding is aimed at expanding the state's airport network to 22, with a substantial portion—₹750 crore—allocated specifically for the new Noida International Airport. Shankh Air's entry is set to enhance regional connectivity and make air travel more accessible within one of India's most populous states.

Geopolitical Shifts in Advanced Fighter Jet Market

In the military aviation sector, negotiations between Saudi Arabia and Turkiye for the TAI Kaan fighter jet are reportedly in advanced stages. The TAI Kaan, also known as TF-X, is a stealth, twin-engine, fifth-generation fighter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). The aircraft successfully completed its maiden flight on February 21, 2024, and is powered in its initial prototype phase by two General Electric F110 engines.

According to reports from Army Recognition and Breaking Defense, a potential agreement could be reached in 2026. This move signifies a growing trend of middle powers developing indigenous military hardware to reduce reliance on traditional Western suppliers. The potential deal has reportedly caused concern for the U.S. administration, which views it as competition for American defense sales in a critical region.

U.S. Deploys Advanced Electronic Warfare Aircraft

Meanwhile, the United States has reportedly deployed the Boeing EA-18G Growler to the Middle East. The Growler is a specialized electronic warfare aircraft based on the F/A-18F Super Hornet. Its primary mission is to suppress enemy air defenses by jamming radar and communications systems, providing an electronic shield for friendly forces.

The aircraft is a critical asset in modern aerial operations, capable of reaching speeds of Mach 1.6 (1,960 km/h). The deployment underscores the increasing importance of electronic warfare capabilities in managing regional conflicts and protecting strategic assets.

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