According to the information given, there are lots of logical thought processes that one can not dismiss outright.
“According to a report in the Israeli newspaper Maariv, citing Spanish defense sources, the Madrid government has completely abandoned the F-35 project and has begun serious preparations for the Turkish-made KAAN National Combat Aircraft.”
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP: ITP AERO AND TEI ALLIANCE
Spain's interest in the KAAN is not limited to a simple aircraft purchase. At the heart of the project lies the goal of complete independence in engine technology. Spanish ITP Aero and Türkiye's engine giant TEI are preparing to establish a "technical survival alliance" for the KAAN's domestically produced engine.
Goal: To end dependence on American General Electric F110 engines.
Focus: Türkiye's developed TF35000 engine.
Division of Labor:
According to the division of labor, TEI will provide the production infrastructure, while ITP Aero will offer technical expertise, particularly in the "hot section" and low-pressure turbine areas. The first ground tests are planned to begin in 2026, with the first flight with the new engine scheduled for 2029. The ultimate goal is stated to be making KAAN independent of American vetoes.”
ITP Aero was a RR subsidiary company until recently. They were instrumental in designing and building a TVC version of the EJ200 engine aimed at getting Indian engine business.
Israeli sources are worried that Spanish see the Kaan superior to F35, according to this news.
Saudi, Pakistani, Indonesian and Egyptian do not bring anything technical that is substantially important to the table. But a Spanish involvement would be invaluable.
We will wait and see how much of this news is credible.