ISTANBUL

Italian defense giant Leonardo and Turkish drone maker Baykar's cooperation agreement, signed on Thursday, is an important step towards innovation and international cooperation, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said.

Baykar Technologies and Leonardo signed the partnership agreement in unmanned technologies. The two companies will collaborate on UCAV production in Italy.

"In a rapidly changing global landscape, the relationship between Italy and Turkey is poised to assume an increasingly pivotal role. From an industrial perspective, we are at the forefront of anticipating the future geopolitical scenarios," Crosetto said on X.

He expressed "profound satisfaction" on the signing of the agreement, adding that the partnership represents a "significant step towards innovation and international cooperation, consolidating Italy's position in the defence and security sector."

"The creation of an Italian-based joint venture is an important opportunity to strengthen Italy's operational and technological capabilities, and contribute to global security and technological progress," he added.