Baykar and Leonardo are preparing for a partnership in the European market! They gave the news like this

It has been learned that Turkish UAV manufacturer Baykar is close to reaching an agreement with Leonardo, one of Italy’s leading defense companies, on a production partnership. According to the Financial Times, the two companies are preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding next week that will set the framework for the joint venture.

HIGH-TECH UAVs CAN BE DEVELOPED

It is stated that this agreement could significantly increase Europe’s UAV production capacity. It could provide Baykar with access to the European market. The cooperation envisages the development of high-tech unmanned aerial vehicles with Leonardo’s technology and Baykar’s platforms.

Baykar is among the world leaders in the production of artificial intelligence-supported unmanned aerial vehicles. The company's main product, Bayraktar TB2, is actively used by the Turkish defense forces as a medium-altitude and long-range attack UAV. However, it is stated that 90 percent of Baykar's revenues come from exports, and sales to 35 countries in 2023 reached 1.8 billion dollars.

BAYKAR WILL OPEN UP TO THE EUROPEAN MARKET

Leonardo is one of three major defense companies developing next-generation fighter jets under the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), along with UK-based BAE Systems and Japan’s JAIEC. It is stated that the collaboration with Baykar could enable the development of a high-tech UAV capable of operating on sixth-generation platforms. On the other hand, this partnership will provide Baykar with the opportunity to access the European market, which it has been targeting for a long time. Last month, the Turkish defense industry company acquired the aviation unit of Italian engine manufacturer Piaggio, thus taking an important step towards expanding its presence in the European aviation sector.

Analysts evaluate the acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace as a strategic move by Baykar to overcome import barriers in Europe, while the company is said to be planning to increase employment at Piaggio's facilities in Italy.

It was reported that contacts between Leonardo and Baykar began close to the completion of the Piaggio agreement, and it was learned that Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani and the Bayraktar brothers paid mutual visits last month.

While Leonardo did not make a statement on the issue, Baykar did not respond to a request for comment.