ANKARA: A terrorist attack struck the Turkish Aerospace Industries’ (TUSAS) headquarters on Wednesday, killing four people and wounding 14 others. The incident occurred near Ankara, where witnesses reported hearing gunfire and an explosion.
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that security forces killed two attackers during the incident. Three of the injured 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 in the attack,” he stated.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack while attending a BRICS conference in Kazan, Russia. He accepted condolences from Russian President Vladimir Putin. NATO, the United States, and the European Union also condemned the attack, expressing solidarity with Turkey.
The cause of the explosion and the identities of the attackers remain unclear. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. Prosecutors have initiated an investigation, according to state-run Anadolu Agency. Some reports suggested it might have been a suicide attack, and there were claims of hostages inside the building, although officials have not confirmed these details.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses recounted a chaotic scene inside the TUSAS building. Authorities took employees to shelters, restricting their movement for several hours. As employees were leaving work, they heard multiple blasts at different exits. Eventually, personnel evacuation began, and buses were allowed to leave once the operation concluded.
Media coverage showed images of a damaged gate and footage of gunfire exchanged in a parking lot. Attackers armed with rifles and carrying backpacks entered the building during the assault. Following the incident, ambulances and helicopters rushed to the scene to assist the injured.
TUSAS is Turkey’s largest aerospace manufacturer, producing training aircraft, combat helicopters, and civilian helicopters. The company is also developing Turkey’s first indigenous fighter jet, named KAAN. Owned by the Turkish Armed Forces Foundation and the government, TUSAS employs over 10,000 people.
NATO Support for Turkey
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte condemned the attack and reaffirmed the military alliance’s support for Turkey. In a statement, he expressed deep sympathy for the victims’ families and emphasized the need for unity against terrorism.
As the investigation continues, security has heightened around key facilities across the country. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of the attack and ensure the safety of citizens. Eyewitness accounts and ongoing investigations will play a crucial role in uncovering the motives behind this tragic event.
The government has vowed to take decisive action to address these threats and maintain public safety. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Turkey faces in combating terrorism and ensuring national security.
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