Turkey Wants Ballistic Missile Test Range, Spaceport in Somalia

Introduction

Turkey's interest in establishing a military presence in the Horn of Africa has been growing in recent years, and now the country is reportedly seeking a ballistic missile test range and spaceport in Somalia. This move would significantly expand Turkey's military capabilities in the region and could have implications for the security of the Horn of Africa.

Turkey's Military Presence in the Horn of Africa

Turkey has been involved in the Horn of Africa since the early 2000s. In 2017, Turkey opened its biggest overseas military base in Mogadishu, Somalia. The base hosts over 200 Turkish troops and is used for training Somali soldiers. Turkey has also been providing military aid to the Somali government and has been involved in counterterrorism operations in the region.

Turkey's Ballistic Missile Program

Turkey has an active ballistic missile program and has developed several short-range and medium-range ballistic missiles. The missiles are designed to deter potential attacks from neighboring countries and to provide Turkey with a strategic strike capability. Turkey has been testing its missiles at a range in the Black Sea, but it is reportedly seeking a new test range in Somalia.

Turkey's Space Program

Turkey is also developing a space program and has launched several satellites into orbit. The country's goal is to become a major player in the space industry and to develop its own space capabilities. Turkey has been working on a spaceport for several years, and it is reportedly considering building the spaceport in Somalia.

Implications for the Horn of Africa

Turkey's plans to establish a ballistic missile test range and spaceport in Somalia could have significant implications for the security of the Horn of Africa. The test range would allow Turkey to test its missiles more frequently and to develop new missiles with longer ranges. The spaceport would give Turkey a platform to launch satellites into orbit and to conduct space research. These capabilities would give Turkey a significant military advantage in the region and could lead to an arms race with other countries in the Horn of Africa.

Conclusion

Turkey's plans to establish a ballistic missile test range and spaceport in Somalia are still in the early stages, but they could have a significant impact on the security of the Horn of Africa. The test range would allow Turkey to test its missiles more frequently and to develop new missiles with longer ranges. The spaceport would give Turkey a platform to launch satellites into orbit and to conduct space research. These capabilities would give Turkey a significant military advantage in the region and could lead to an arms race with other countries in the Horn of Africa.