On Wednesday, armed assailants launched a deadly terrorist attack on Turkey's state-run aerospace company, Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), located on the outskirts of Ankara. The attack resulted in at least three fatalities and 14 injuries, with two attackers being killed in the incident.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya condemned the heinous attack and vowed to continue the fight against terrorism until the last terrorist is neutralized. He expressed condolences for the victims and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.
A verified social media video captured the moment of the explosion at the TUSAS headquarters, followed by a person seen running in a parking lot holding a firearm. Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas expressed sadness over the attack on TUSAS, a significant defense company in Turkey.
The Turkish Justice Minister announced that an investigation has been initiated into the attack. The general manager of TUSAS, Mehmet Demiroglu, cut short his participation in a defense fair to return to Ankara following the incident.
Established in 1973, TUSAS plays a crucial role in reducing Turkey's foreign dependence in the defense industry by producing armed drones and fighter jets. The attack took place while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was attending the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia.
The US State Department is closely monitoring the situation, and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed solidarity with Turkey, calling the attack deeply concerning. NATO stands with Turkey in the aftermath of this tragic event.
