Leonardo and Baykar join forces to develop uncrewed aerial systems
Baykar’s Akinci drone was first unveiled in 2019 and will be the focus platform of the joint venture. (Photo: Baykar)
Baykar’s AKINCI drone will be the first focus platform for the joint venture, with the first prototype targeted for development in 12 to 18 months.
Leonardo and Baykar have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for their joint venture to develop uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
The two companies hinted at “creating synergies” earlier in the year, and according to both Leonardo and Baykar, this venture announcement was the culmination of five months of “intense” discussion.
The partnership will work to leverage and combine Baykar’s UAS platforms with Leonardo’s expertise in mission systems, payload design and related aerospace certifications in Europe. The joint venture would be headquartered in Italy but see Leonardo and Baykar share production and manufacturing processes in Italy and Turkey, according to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Can emergent suppliers of fighter aircraft crack Middle East markets?]()
Can emergent suppliers of fighter aircraft crack Middle East markets?
The 2025 Dubai Airshow saw several aspiring suppliers of combat aircraft to the region’s air forces parade their wares in the sky and on the ground. Shephard’s Edward Hunt explores their chance of success in the Middle East.
-
![Saab eyes fresh market opportunities for its GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft]()
Saab eyes fresh market opportunities for its GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft
As the E-7 Wedgetail faces prolonged production and technical delays as well as a recently abandoned contract from NATO, its competitor, the GlobalEye, may find new avenues for market growth.
-
![US Air Force prepares to test uncrewed F-16 VISTA in challenging scenarios]()
US Air Force prepares to test uncrewed F-16 VISTA in challenging scenarios
Th mission systems upgrade of the X-62 VISTA variant of the F-16 will allow the air force to evaluate the jet in more demanding environments.
-
![Lockheed’s deal to triple PAC-3 MSE production opens doors to portfolio boost]()
Lockheed’s deal to triple PAC-3 MSE production opens doors to portfolio boost
The framework agreement with the US Department of Defense would see Lockheed Martin increase production capacity from 600 to 2,000 interceptors per year.
