Italian aerospace and defense giant Leonardo is set to accelerate its collaboration with Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar, according to company chairman Stefano Pontecorvo, as reported by state news agency ANSA.
Leonardo’s Swift Approach to Collaboration
When asked about the pace of the cooperation, Pontecorvo emphasized that CEO Roberto Cingolani is moving forward quickly.
“He is almost like a Formula 1 car. So yes, the process will move fast. There is no room for wasting time in the defense industry anymore. The era of talking is over.”
Pontecorvo also visited Baykar’s production facility in Istanbul last week, praising the company’s rapid rise to industry leadership within 12 years.
Potential Cooperation on Piaggio Aerospace
Baykar recently acquired Italian aviation firm Piaggio Aerospace, and while Leonardo does not currently have a direct relationship with Piaggio, Pontecorvo hinted at future opportunities.
“If negotiations go well, we will certainly keep a close eye on such a prestigious Italian company.”
Speaking to Genoa-based Il Secolo XIX newspaper, he added that potential collaboration with Piaggio could yield “spectacular” results in the region.
Baykar’s Growing Global Presence
Baykar Technologies, known for producing the Bayraktar TB2, Akıncı, and Kızılelma drones, completed its Piaggio acquisition in December. Italy’s Made in Italy Ministry has also acknowledged the possibility of Leonardo’s partnership with the Turkish firm.
Cem Cetinguc