An attack on the Turkish Aerospace Industries in Ankara resulted in five deaths and 22 injuries. Defence Minister Yaşar Güler attributed the attack to PKK militants. The PKK is recognized as a terrorist organization by multiple countries and international organizations including the European Union, the US, the UK, and Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack and expressed his condolences to the victims, calling it a heinous act of terrorism.
The attack took place in the Kahramankazan district of Ankara, where assailants set off explosives and opened fire at the headquarters of the Turkish Aerospace Industries. Two of the attackers were neutralized by Turkish security forces. The assailants, including a woman, arrived at the complex in a taxi and detonated an explosive device, causing chaos and allowing them to enter the premises. Gunshots were heard after security forces intervened, with helicopters seen flying above the area.
Established in 1984, the Turkish Aerospace Industries is a leading aerospace company in Turkey specializing in the manufacture, integration, design, development, modernization, and life cycle support of integrated aerospace systems. TAI is crucial to Turkey’s aerospace and defense industry, and is known for its Hürjet – a single-engine supersonic advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft. The attack on TAI was perceived as an assault on Turkey’s success in the defense industry.
Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz emphasized that the attack aimed to undermine Turkey’s defense industry achievements, but stated that the heroic employees of the defense industry would not be deterred by such acts of terrorism. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with Turkey during this difficult time. The Turkish government, including the Minister of Defence and the Interior Minister, vowed to eliminate terrorism and continue their relentless pursuit of terrorists.
The incident at the Turkish Aerospace Industries is a tragic reminder of the ongoing threats and challenges faced by Turkey in combating terrorism. The government’s determination to root out terrorism and protect its citizens and industries remains steadfast despite such attacks. The international community, including the European Union, stands in solidarity with Turkey against terrorism in all its forms. As Turkey mourns the loss of lives and injuries from the attack, efforts are underway to ensure the safety and security of the nation’s aerospace and defense sectors.
