Turkiye seeks to establish Somalia space centre for rocket launches and missile tests

Turkiye is reportedly in talks with Somalia to establish a centre for test-firing missiles and launching rockets into space, according to Bloomberg citing sources familiar with the matter. The discussions align with Ankara’s ambition to expand its missile and space programmes, which require long-range testing. Somalia’s strategic location on Africa’s eastern tip, near the equator, makes it an ideal site, allowing for test launches over the Indian Ocean.

Somalia’s equatorial position also benefits space launches by improving rocket efficiency. Turkish officials are reportedly optimistic that Mogadishu will agree to the proposal, although officials in both countries have declined to comment.

Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkiye has been increasing its influence in the East African country through military cooperation and infrastructure projects. It already operates its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu, where it trains Somali troops.

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The potential testing site would support Turkiye’s long-term aspirations to boost the range of its domestically-developed Tayfun missiles and increase its involvement in space exploration. A space centre in Somalia could play a key role in Turkiye’s ambitious space programme, which aims for a moon landing by 2028.

Turkiye Today notes that Ankara saw an opportunity in Somalia’s instability and the absence of major international players to increase its influence in the continent. Turkiye aims to expand its market presence in East Africa, and portray itself as a regional mediator, with a focus on Muslim solidarity.

Turkish non-governmental organisations and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) have supported development and relief efforts in Somalia actively, while major brands like Turkish Airlines have launched fundraising campaigns to aid the country.

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