by EH
Leonardo, the Italian defense and aerospace company, has reaffirmed the importance of its Ronchi dei Legionari manufacturing plant in Friuli Venezia Giulia, which will benefit from a new partnership with Baykar, a Turkish drone manufacturer. The collaboration is expected to strengthen employment at the facility and open new market opportunities, particularly within the European defense sector.
During a meeting with Leonardo representatives, Sergio Emidio Bini, Regional Councillor for Productive Activities, highlighted the strategic significance of the plant for Leonardo’s operations in Italy. Bini also emphasized that the partnership with Baykar would provide additional advantages and contribute to the company’s global expansion in the unmanned aerial systems sector.
“The Ronchi dei Legionari plant remains central and strategic for Leonardo’s activities in Italy and will gain further benefits from the collaboration with Baykar,” Bini said. “This partnership will help solidify Leonardo’s presence in the unmanned sector, especially within Europe.”
Leonardo’s industrial strategy was outlined in an updated 2024-2029 industrial plan, which includes strengthening its global position in defense through international industrial alliances. As part of this strategy, the company is exploring new ventures in areas where its presence has historically been weaker, including the unmanned systems market.
The joint venture discussions with Baykar follow a precedent set by Leonardo’s successful partnership with Rheinmetall in the tank sector, which led to the relocation of 60% of tank production to Italy and revitalized the company’s La Spezia site. Bini expressed hope that a similar outcome could occur for the Ronchi dei Legionari facility, positioning it as a key player in the new partnership with Baykar.
“We are optimistic about the potential for Ronchi dei Legionari to take on a leading role in this collaboration,” Bini added.
Alessia Rosolen, the Regional Councillor for Employment, also welcomed the partnership, noting that it underscored the site’s strategic importance. She further commended the company for maintaining continuous dialogue with trade unions, which has been a consistent feature of its operations. Rosolen emphasized the potential benefits of the joint venture for the local workforce, reinforcing the company’s commitment to local employment and growth.
Leonardo has reassured both the public and local stakeholders that it will continue its regular communications with trade unions, in line with Italy’s industrial relations model. Discussions regarding the joint venture have been conducted at the highest levels, and regular consultations are taking place at the Ronchi dei Legionari plant with the involvement of human resources.
As negotiations with Baykar progress, the company has pledged to maintain transparency and confidentiality where necessary, while ensuring ongoing engagement with stakeholders.
The collaboration with Baykar reflects Leonardo’s broader efforts to strengthen its role as a global leader in defense technology while fostering local economic development through strategic partnerships.
