Italian intelligence agencies also requested measures to protect classified information and sensitive technologies involved in the venture, aiming to reduce the risk of losing national technological capabilities, the report said.
For Leonardo, the agreement provides access to a drone market the company estimates will be worth $115.9 billion over the next decade.
For Baykar, one of the world’s leading drone exporters, the partnership is expected to strengthen access to European defence markets through Italy’s industrial base.
According to earlier statements cited by the newspaper, facilities in Ronchi dei Legionari, Turin, Grottaglie and Rome Tiburtina are expected to take part in the cooperation.
The government’s approval followed a brief discussion at a Council of Ministers meeting attended by senior officials, including Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Crosetto, the report said.
The agreement is now operational, according to Il Messaggero.
Leonardo and Baykar signed a memorandum of understanding in March last year to establish the joint venture, which was formally launched in June 2025 under the name LBA Systems.
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