A deadly attack unfolded on Wednesday at the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) headquarters near Ankara, leading to multiple casualties and injuries. Footage broadcast by local media showed armed assailants entering the facility amid reports of gunfire and a loud explosion.
According to Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, the attack targeted the TUSAS facilities in Kahramankazan, Ankara. “Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people,” Yerlikaya announced on the social media platform X. He did not provide details about the perpetrators or the exact cause of the explosion and gunfire.
There have been unconfirmed media reports suggesting it was a suicide attack and that there were hostages inside the building. Authorities have not yet confirmed these claims, but witnesses reported employees being escorted to shelters, with no one allowed to leave the building. Bombings were also suspected to have occurred at different exits as employees were finishing work for the day.
Television footage showed a damaged gate and an exchange of gunfire in the facility’s parking lot, with attackers carrying assault rifles and backpacks as they entered. Emergency services were swiftly deployed to the scene, and prosecutors have launched an investigation into the incident.
TUSAS, a key player in Turkey’s defence and aerospace industry, is responsible for the production of the KAAN, Turkey’s first national combat aircraft, among other major projects. The company employs over 10,000 workers.
Melissa Enoch
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