Faith Nyasuguta
Turkey is engaging in discussions with Somalia about establishing a missile and space rocket test site in the Horn of Africa, according to sources familiar with the talks who spoke to Bloomberg. The proposed site would serve Turkey’s growing ambitions in missile technology and space exploration, reflecting its broader strategy to expand its influence on the African continent.
The sources, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, revealed that Turkey’s ballistic missile program requires a site for long-range testing, and Somalia’s strategic location on Africa’s eastern coast provides an ideal launch point over the Indian Ocean.
The proximity to the equator is another advantage for space exploration, as equatorial launches enhance the range and efficiency of space rockets, making Somalia a prime candidate for such a facility.
Turkey has been eager to join the global space race, typically dominated by major powers, and has been preparing for a rocket launch for several years. This potential site in Somalia could accelerate Turkey’s ambitions. While Turkish officials have not commented on the plans, they are reportedly optimistic that Somalia will approve the request.
However, Hussein Sheikh-Ali, the national security adviser to Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and Abdi Ahmed Koshin, chairman of Somalia’s parliamentary sub-committee on defence, have both refrained from confirming any agreement with Turkey.
Turkey’s interest in establishing a test site in Somalia aligns with its strategic investments across the African continent. Over the past decade, Turkey has increased its presence in Africa through various initiatives, including defence cooperation, infrastructure projects, and hydrocarbon exploration.
In Somalia, Turkey has solidified its presence with humanitarian aid, military training, and infrastructure development, positioning itself as a key partner in the country’s reconstruction efforts after years of conflict.
Moreover, Turkey’s involvement extends to mediating in political conflicts, such as the ongoing tension between Somalia’s central government and Somaliland, a semi-autonomous region. By positioning itself as a diplomatic and developmental partner, Turkey has been steadily enhancing its influence in the Horn of Africa, reflecting its broader geopolitical ambitions.
The missile and space rocket test site in Somalia could further strengthen Turkey’s strategic foothold in Africa. It would also support its efforts to extend the range of its domestically produced Tayfun missiles, which President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced in 2022 could reach around 560 kilometers (350 miles). Launching from Somalia would help mitigate the risks associated with missile debris falling over populated areas or neighbouring countries.
Turkey’s growing interest in Africa, particularly in the Horn of Africa, is indicative of its desire to become a major player on the continent. By establishing a missile and space rocket test site in Somalia, Turkey could enhance its position in both regional and global politics while boosting its defense and space capabilities.
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