Russian Missile Attack Damages Bayraktar TB2 Drone Factory in Ukraine
Russian missile strikes have targeted a drone factory under construction in Kyiv, owned by the Turkish defense firm Baykar, significantly impacting Ukraine's drone production capabilities. The facility was set to produce the Turkish Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci drones, which have been crucial in Ukraine's defense against Russia since 2022.
Reports from Turkish media indicate that the site was struck by two missiles, resulting in extensive damage. The plant, managed by Baykar's Ukrainian subsidiary LLC Avia Ventures, was close to completion but had not yet commenced operations.
Baykar's press office has verified the attack, noting that the company is actively monitoring developments. The missile strike caused explosions and a significant fire, which Ukrainian emergency responders, with the aid of specialized helicopters, sought to contain, as reported by local media.
The initiative, valued at $95.5 million and begun in 2019, aimed to strengthen Baykar's footprint in Ukraine. This incident marks the fourth assault by Russian forces on the facility within the past six months.
Earlier in the month, on August 20, Ukrainian forces employed Bayraktar TB2 drones to attack a Russian vessel near Kherson, resulting in the deaths of five crew members through the use of laser-guided munitions.
