An explosion was reported outside the headquarters of an aviation company near Ankara, in an incident that authorities have deemed a terrorist attack.
The country’s Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya posted on X: “Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people.”
Initial images shown by NTV television channel showed a large cloud of smoke in front of the entrance of the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), located about 40 km from the capital.
According to local media, gunshots were heard.
They said the explosion occurred around shift change and staff had to be directed to take shelter.
Firefighters and medical teams were dispatched to the scene.
Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavas said in a statement that he was “extremely saddened” by the news.
“I pray for God’s mercy on our martyrs and a speedy recovery for the injured. We condemn terrorism. My condolences.”
TAI is a key player in Türkiye’s aerospace industry, designing, developing and manufacturing a variety of aircraft for commercial and military use.
The explosion occurred just as a major trade fair for the defense and aerospace industry was taking place in Istanbul this week.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
