Construction Continues Amid Shelling
The Turkish defense technology company Baykar has confirmed that construction of its Bayraktar drone manufacturing plant in Ukraine continues as planned, despite multiple Russian attacks on the facility.
In an interview with Ukrinform, Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar stated that the company’s commitment to Ukraine remains “unshakable.”
The latest strike occurred on the night of August 29, 2025, in the Kyiv region, marking the fourth attack in six months targeting the site.
“This attack is another confirmation of the cruelty that Ukrainians face every day. The safety of our Ukrainian colleagues is the highest priority. We are grateful that no one was injured during the shelling,”
— Haluk Bayraktar, CEO of Baykar.
Damage Assessment and Project Continuation
According to Bayraktar, the facility sustained structural damage and material losses, but this will not affect the project’s timeline.
“Iron, concrete and buildings can be restored. What is more important is our will and faith in this project. No missile can destroy our friendship. We have completed the damage assessment and are continuing our work according to schedule,”
— added the Baykar CEO.
The company confirmed that construction activities have already resumed, with reinforced security measures in place.
Symbol of Strategic Partnership
The Bayraktar plant is one of the most significant Turkish investment projects in Ukraine’s defense sector, symbolizing the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Once completed, the facility will produce Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones, as well as the next-generation Kızılelma unmanned combat aircraft, which will use Ukrainian-made engines.
Earlier, Baykar presented a prototype of the Kızılelma UAV, highlighting the deep technological cooperation between Turkish and Ukrainian aerospace industries.
“Bayraktar Kızılelma has wings. The whole family is spending a wonderful Sunday together,”
— the company wrote in a message accompanying the prototype reveal.
Broader Context
The ongoing attacks underline the risks faced by defense projects in Ukraine, but also demonstrate international confidence in Ukraine’s resilience and industrial potential.
Despite the war, Baykar continues to invest in local production, training, and supply chain development, contributing to the growth of Ukraine’s defense-industrial base.
