Leonardo and Baykar Technologies have announced the creation of a new Joint Venture based in Italy, aimed at exploring joint opportunities in the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sector across European and international markets. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a ceremony held in Rome on 6th March 2025. The ceremony was attended by Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of the Board of Baykar, Roberto Cingolani, CEO and General Manager of Leonardo, and Guido Crosetto, Italy’s Minister of Defence.
Collaboration in UAV and Space Technologies
The new joint venture will combine Baykar’s global leadership in unmanned aerial platforms with Leonardo’s expertise in mission systems, artificial intelligence, C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence), and space technologies. The collaboration will focus on the development of unmanned combat aircraft, armed surveillance drones, and deep strike drones.
The two companies predict that the European UAV market will reach $100 billion in the next decade. This collaboration will also include the development of joint solutions for the space sector.
The Role of Baykar and Leonardo
Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo, said the following about the partnership:
“Together with Baykar, we are creating a new reference player in unmanned technologies. In the future of defence, unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and space technologies will play a critical role.”
Selçuk Bayraktar, Chairman of Baykar, also stated:
“Baykar is focused on pushing the boundaries of innovation in unmanned aviation. Leonardo’s capabilities in C4I systems and artificial intelligence technologies will make our collaboration even more effective.”
Production and R&D Centres
The two companies will carry out joint projects at three Leonardo facilities in Italy:
- Ronchi dei Legionari (Friuli): UAV expertise centre
- Torino (Piedmont): Development of integrated multi-domain technologies
- Roma Tiburtina: Space technology solutions
Acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace
In December 2024, Baykar announced the acquisition of the Italian aerospace company Piaggio Aerospace. Piaggio’s famous P-180 Avanti model and the unmanned P.1HH Hammerhead platform will be revitalised with Baykar’s UAV expertise. Piaggio will continue to operate as a separate brand.
© AeroHaber.com / Mevlüt Zor
Aviation News and Defense Industry news published on our website cannot be used without proper attribution.
