Leonardo and Baykar will each hold a 50% stake in LBA Systems, which will be legally and operationally based in Italy. The joint venture–announced during the ongoing Paris Air Show in Le Bourget–will be responsible for the design, development, production, and support of unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

As Roberto Cingolani, CEO and General Manager of Leonardo, explained, “technological cooperation is a powerful means to address the unprecedented challenges facing the defense sector. Integrating Leonardo’s experience in certification and integrated multi-domain technologies with Baykar’s world-class unmanned platforms can truly provide a meaningful boost in seizing opportunities both across Europe and on the global stage.”

The company's path in terms of international alliances was also highlighted by Leonardo's President, Stefano Pontecorvo, who pointed out how the recent joint ventures with Baykar and Rheinmetall testify to the vision of an increasingly integrated, innovative and cooperative Defence industry.