The Turkish defense firm Baykar, primarily recognized for its Bayraktar TB2 reconnaissance-strike drones, is expanding its global footprint. On Friday, December 27, it was announced that the Italian government has given the "green light" for the sale of Piaggio Aerospace.
This manufacturer has been under state administration since 2018 due to financial difficulties. However, this did not hinder its ability to continue operations fully over the past six years. It is reported that the commission managing Piaggio Aerospace selected Turkish Baykar among two unnamed competitors.
According to the company, Baykar was chosen as the most suitable option among all alternatives, while details regarding the specifics of this deal, particularly the cost of the acquisition of the Italian company by Turkey, have not been disclosed, as noted by the publication Defense Post.A representative from Piaggio Aerospace stated that this agreement will help preserve jobs and production.
Piaggio Aerospace, also known as Piaggio Aero Industries, has a long history dating back to 1884. It is one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers, with its first aircraft released in 1915.
In 1966, as a result of the company's development, two separate branches were established: Piaggio Aero, focusing on aviation, and Vespa, which produced the iconic Vespa scooters.
The company is particularly known for its P.180 Avanti business jets, which made its first flight in September 1986. Production of the P.180 Avanti II series began in 2005, with these aircraft being purchased by the Italian military, among others.
Currently, the company operates in three main sectors: business aviation, defense and security, and engines.