ALBAWABA - In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Kremlin has made a statement in response to Turkey's recent announcement. Just two days ago, Turkish defense company Baykar revealed plans to construct a factory in Ukraine, near the capital city of Kiev.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, set to visit Turkey on February 12, has attracted attention with his Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu's remarks today. Shoigu, a trusted figure within Putin's administration, spoke about Russian-made drones during a public appearance, emphasizing both increased production and existing technical challenges.
Shoigu's visit to unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production facilities in Udmurtia's Volga River region further complicates matters following Baykar's Ukraine factory announcement. The CEO of Baykar, Haluk Bayraktar, had recently declared plans for the Ukrainian factory, stating it would annually produce 120 TB2 drones, with construction unaffected by the ongoing conflict.
These developments raise questions about the timing and implications of Baykar's investment in Ukraine amidst the heightened tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the cancellation of Putin's anticipated visit to a NATO member country, speculated to be related to positive developments in Ankara-Washington relations.
Turkish Bayraktar drones to start manufacturing in Ukraine
Baykar, the Turkish defense, has announced plans to open a plant in Kyiv, Ukraine to start manufacturing their infamous Bayraktar battle drones, employing over 500 workers to produce either TB2 or TB3 drones, according to CEO Haluk Bayraktar's interview with Reuters.
During the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Baykar spoke to Reuters about the upcoming factory, saying it is currently under construction and expected to start production in about a year with an output of 120 units per year, with investments into the project reaching $95 million.
