Ankara : A devastating terror attack on the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) near Ankara left six people dead, including two attackers, and 14 others injured on Wednesday, Turkish officials reported.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who was attending a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan, Russia, confirmed the casualties and condemned the incident, describing it as a “heinous terrorist attack.”
Details of the Attack
- The incident occurred at TAI’s facility in Kahramankazan, a town 40 km north of Ankara, around 4:00 pm (1300 GMT).
- Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya reported that the attackers—a man and a woman—were “neutralized.” Three of the injured are in critical condition.
- Local media footage captured clouds of smoke and a raging fire at the site.
- Reports indicated that one of the attackers detonated a suicide bomb. Some outlets also mentioned gunfire and a possible hostage situation inside the facility.
Investigation and Security Response
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the identities of the attackers. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The justice minister announced that officials are working to uncover any additional threats or accomplices.
Media Blackout and International Reactions
Following the explosion, Turkey’s media watchdog imposed a blackout on live footage from the scene.
Russian President Putin expressed his condolences to Erdogan during their meeting. NATO chief Mark Rutte also conveyed the alliance’s support for Turkey, stating, “NATO stands with Turkiye.”
TAI’s Importance to Turkey’s Defense Industry
TAI, a state-owned defense firm known for producing Bayraktar drones, employs over 15,500 people and operates on a sprawling five million square meter site. The attack coincided with Istanbul hosting a major defense trade fair.
Past Terror Incidents
This attack follows recent incidents in Turkey, including an October 2023 bombing in Ankara’s government district and a January church shooting in Istanbul claimed by ISIS.
Key Takeaways
- Casualties: 6 dead (including 2 attackers), 14 injured
- Location: TAI headquarters, Kahramankazan, Ankara
- Response: Attack condemned by Erdogan, investigation underway
- Global Impact: NATO offers support; Erdogan discusses the attack with Putin
This incident highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism in Turkey, particularly targeting critical infrastructure and defense industries. Authorities are expected to increase security measures in light of the attack.
