Türkiye is planning to construct a space launch facility in Somalia, leveraging the country’s proximity to the equator for efficient satellite launches, Turkish media reports.
The project aims to enable Türkiye to launch satellites using domestically developed technology while advancing its rocket development capabilities.
The successful launch of Turksat 5B in December 2022 and the anticipated launch of Turksat 6A in July 2024 have significantly expanded Türkiye’s satellite coverage, along with its ambitions to be a player in space technology.
Türkiye’s domestically produced satellites are currently being launched from facilities in the United States. Ankara aims to reduce reliance on foreign launch sites by building a space launch facility in Somalia, which Ankara identifies as a strategic ally and alternative.
Türkiye’s $6 billion investment in Somalia has reportedly been approved by the Somali government. This initiative builds on the strong relationship between the two nations, which deepened following President Recep Tayyip Erdogan‘s visit in 2011.
Türkiye has since established its largest overseas military training base in Mogadishu and cooperated with Somalia on energy exploration projects.
