Baykar Leonardo Partnership: Advancing Unmanned Technologies
**An important milestone has been reached in the field of unmanned technologies following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Baykar Technology and Leonardo. This strategic agreement is rooted in the industrial synergy of both companies, which complement each other in the unmanned vehicle sector. The planned Joint Venture will be established in Italy and will focus on the design, development, production, and maintenance of unmanned aerial systems, signaling a significant collaboration in this rapidly evolving market.**
The formal signing event took place at Leonardo’s headquarters in Rome, attended by Italy’s Minister of Defence, Guido Crosetto. Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of Baykar, and Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo, signed the agreement, which aims to leverage Baykar’s successful global operational track record with Leonardo’s expertise in mission systems and aerospace certifications. This partnership positions both companies to explore a market that could exceed $100 billion in unmanned combat and attack UAVs over the next decade.
Harnessing Joint Expertise
Both companies are currently engaged in various fields, including unmanned aerial vehicles, electronic systems, and artificial intelligence, with a goal to create harmonious multi-domain ecosystems. The collaboration will allow for joint assessments of opportunities in European and international markets, tapping into new synergies, particularly in the realm of space technology.
Selçuk Bayraktar emphasized the scope of innovation that the partnership brings, highlighting Baykar’s leading role in the development and export of armed unmanned aerial vehicles. He stated that this collaboration enhances their ability to push the boundaries of unmanned aviation and aspire to develop forward-thinking solutions that set new standards in unmanned aerial systems, particularly through the incorporation of ethically advanced AI technologies.
A Vision for the Future of Defense
Roberto Cingolani commented on the significance of the agreement, portraying it as a crucial step towards shaping the future of defense with a new reference player in unmanned technologies. He acknowledged the current challenges facing the defense sector, including advancements in unmanned systems, sixth-generation fighter jets, and cybersecurity threats, asserting that technological collaboration is essential for progress and global security.
The newly formed joint venture will utilize Leonardo’s specialized center for unmanned platforms located in Ronchi dei Legionari, with additional development projects taking place in their Turin and Rome facilities. Plans are also in motion for the development of integrated multi-domain technologies and joint initiatives in the space sector, showcasing the ambitious goals early set by Baykar and Leonardo in this pioneering collaboration.
