A terrorist attack at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS) in Kahramankazan, Ankara, left several dead and injured on Wednesday, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed.

The incident occurred around 40 kilometers from the Turkish capital, with reports indicating a loud explosion followed by gunfire. The attack, which is suspected to be a suicide bombing, targeted one of Turkey's most prominent defense and aviation companies, responsible for producing the country’s first national combat aircraft, KAAN, among other key military projects.

"A terrorist attack was carried out against the TUSAS facilities in Kahramankazan. Unfortunately, we have martyrs and injured people," Yerlikaya announced on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

Initial media reports, including from state-owned Anadolu Agency, described a chaotic scene at the site, with emergency services quickly responding. HaberTurk television reported the explosion, followed by an exchange of gunfire in a parking lot near the entrance to the complex. Television footage showed a damaged gate and emergency responders securing the area.

While the cause of the explosion remains unclear, security sources have not ruled out the possibility of a suicide bombing. Firefighters, ambulances, and security forces were immediately dispatched, and employees at TUSAS were evacuated to a safe location, according to local news outlet NTV.

Major defense hub targeted

TUSAS, considered a cornerstone of Turkey's defence industry, plays a vital role in the country’s military advancement. The company is heavily involved in aerospace development, including the production of KAAN and other defense technologies. The attack marks a significant breach of security at one of Turkey's key military assets.

The full extent of the casualties and damage is yet to be determined as investigations continue. However, Yerlikaya's remarks about "martyrs and injured people" indicate a grave loss. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the perpetrators or their motives, though the incident is being treated as a terrorist attack.

Turkey has faced sporadic terrorist incidents in recent years, targeting both military and civilian sites. This latest attack raises concerns about the security of critical infrastructure, especially in sectors tied to national defence.

The Turkish government has vowed to bring those responsible to justice, as security forces work to secure the site and investigate the incident.