Turkeys currently in advanced discussions with Somalia regarding the establishment of a ballistic missile and space rocket test site in the Horn of Africa. This project, revealed by sources familiar with the matter and reported by Bloomberg, highlights Ankara’s growing ambition to strengthen its military and technological influence on the African continent, while pursuing its goal of competing in the global space race. If this project materializes, Somalia, thanks to its strategic geographic location, would become a key element in Turkey’s space and ballistic missile programs.
Turkey’s interest in Somalia is driven by several geopolitical and technical factors. Located on the eastern tip of Africa, near the equator, Somalia offers an ideal location for launching space rockets and testing long-range ballistic missiles. Launching missiles or rockets from this location would allow Türkiye to use the Indian Ocean as a safe drop zone for debris, thus avoiding risks to nearby populations or infrastructure. Additionally, the proximity to the equator would enable Türkiye to optimize the performance of its launch vehicles, further advancing its ambitious space program.
This ballistic and space test site project aligns with Türkiye’s broader efforts to establish itself as a key player in military and aerospace technology. In 2022, Turkey unveiled its new Tayfun ballistic missiles, which have a range of 560 kilometers, positioning them among the country’s most advanced long-range weapons. These missiles, fully designed and manufactured in Turkey, symbolize Ankara’s desire to achieve self-sufficiency in defense while enhancing its ability to project military power abroad.