A terrorist attack at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) in Kahramankazan, Ankara, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries on Wednesday, as confirmed by Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.
The incident took place approximately 40 kilometers from Ankara, with reports indicating a loud explosion followed by gunfire. The attack, believed to be a suicide bombing, targeted one of Turkey’s leading defense and aviation firms, known for developing the country’s first national combat aircraft, KAAN, along with other significant military projects.
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Yerlikaya announced on X (formerly Twitter), “A terrorist attack was carried out against the TUSAS facilities in Kahramankazan. Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people.”
Initial reports from state-owned Anadolu Agency described a chaotic scene at the location, with emergency services responding swiftly. HaberTurk television noted that the explosion was followed by gunfire in a parking area near the complex entrance. Footage from the scene showed a damaged gate and emergency personnel securing the area.
While the exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation, security sources have not dismissed the possibility of a suicide bombing. Firefighters, ambulances, and security forces were promptly dispatched, and employees at TUSAS were evacuated to safety, according to local news outlet NTV.
TUSAS is a key player in Turkey’s defense industry and crucial for the nation’s military advancements, especially in aerospace development. This attack represents a significant security breach at one of Turkey’s essential military assets.
The full extent of the casualties and damage remains unclear as investigations proceed. However, Yerlikaya’s comments regarding “martyrs and injured people” suggest a severe loss. Authorities have not provided additional details on the perpetrators or their motives, but the incident is being treated as a terrorist attack.
Turkey has experienced sporadic terrorist incidents in recent years, affecting both military and civilian sites. This latest attack raises alarms about the security of critical infrastructure, particularly in areas related to national defense.
The Turkish government has pledged to hold those responsible accountable, as security forces work to secure the site and continue their investigation.
