Turkey begins setting up base for Russian S-400 missiles

Turkey is making a military site for a Russian missile system despite the United States warning it not buy the system, CNBC News reported today.

Russia will supply Turkey with the S-400 missile system next year, in a deal worth $2.5 billion. The move comes as tensions between Turkey and the US continue to rise after America placed sanctions on Turkish products in response to Ankara’s refusal to release an American citizen who faces terrorism-related charges.

Satellite imagery seen by CNBC included a concrete launch facility and military bunkers.

The S-400 has a larger range than the US-made THAAD missile system and is estimated to cost significantly less. The Russian system is equipped with 32 missiles, and eight launchers – capable of targeting stealth military aircrafts, specifically designed to target US weapons systems.

Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, reiterated the need to acquire the S-400 missile system last month.

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