Terror Attack at Turkish Aerospace Industries Headquarters Leaves Four Dead, 14 Wounded

Gunfire and Explosion Rock Facility Near Ankara

Four people were killed, and 14 others were wounded in a terrorist attack on Wednesday at the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) headquarters, near Ankara. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and an explosion, prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Attackers Neutralized, Investigation Underway

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that two attackers were killed during the assault. Among the injured, three are in critical condition. “Two terrorists were neutralized in the terror attack on the TUSAS Ankara Kahramankazan site. Sadly, we have three martyrs and 14 wounded,” Yerlikaya said in a statement.

Footage aired on television showed armed assailants carrying assault rifles and backpacks as they stormed the building. Images of a damaged gate, a gunfire exchange in the parking lot, and the arrival of ambulances and helicopters were broadcast across the nation.

Global Condemnation

The attack drew swift condemnation from world leaders. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, attending a BRICS conference in Kazan, Russia, alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, denounced the assault and accepted Putin’s condolences. NATO, the United States, and the European Union also strongly condemned the attack.

Unclear Motives and Unclaimed Responsibility

While the cause of the explosion and the attackers’ identities remain unclear, no group has claimed responsibility so far. Prosecutors have launched an investigation, and state-run Anadolu Agency reported authorities are gathering evidence. Some media outlets suggested the possibility of a suicide bombing, but officials have not confirmed these reports.

Eyewitness Accounts and Aftermath

Employees inside the TUSAS building were quickly escorted to safety by authorities. Witnesses reported hearing multiple explosions as employees were preparing to leave for the day. An evacuation operation followed, with buses transporting personnel from the site after the situation was brought under control.

Strategic Importance of TUSAS

TUSAS is Turkey’s largest aerospace manufacturer and a crucial component of the nation’s defense and aviation sector. The company develops training aircraft, combat and civilian helicopters, and is working on Turkey’s first indigenous fighter jet, the KAAN. Owned by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation and the government, TUSAS employs more than 10,000 people.

As investigations continue, Turkey remains on high alert, with government authorities vowing a swift and thorough response to protect its critical infrastructure and ensure national security.