Turkey is advancing talks with Somalia to establish a launchpad for testing space rockets and missiles, a development that signals Ankara’s growing involvement in the Horn of Africa. This move comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tension in the region, particularly following a controversial agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, which has raised concerns of foreign interference.
Strategic Discussions for a Somali Spaceport
According to a report by Bloomberg, Turkey and Somalia are in negotiations to set up a space rocket launchpad on Somali soil. The proposed site would enable Turkey to test ballistic missiles and rockets, with Somalia’s geographical location—near the equator—making it an ideal spot for such activities. This proximity to the Indian Ocean allows for launches that would benefit from the Earth’s rotational speed, a key advantage for space missions.
Turkish officials, who remain optimistic about reaching an agreement with Somali authorities, have yet to publicly comment on the matter. The Somali national security adviser, Hussein Sheikh-Ali, along with other officials, has also declined to provide details, underscoring the sensitive nature of the discussions. While these talks are ongoing, the chairman of Somalia’s parliamentary subcommittee on defence, Abdi Ahmed Koshin, expressed that he was unaware of any formal conversations regarding the plan.
A Bold Vision for Turkey’s Space Program
This development aligns with Turkey’s ambitions to expand its influence and technological capabilities through its space programme. In 2021, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan outlined a 10-year plan that would see Turkey making significant strides in space exploration. The vision includes launching a moon mission by 2028, with Somalia identified as a key location for a spaceport.
Reports suggest that the establishment of the Somali spaceport could cost up to $350 million, with the total programme budget estimated at $1 billion. This ambitious plan, in addition to boosting Turkey’s space exploration capabilities, would also enhance its geopolitical footprint in the region.
Strengthening Turkey-Somalia Ties
Turkey’s involvement in Somalia extends far beyond the potential spaceport. Relations between the two countries have been steadily improving since President Erdogan’s initial visit to Somalia in 2011. Over the years, Turkey has invested heavily in the country, notably establishing its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu in 2017. The $50 million base has the capacity to train more than 10,000 Somali soldiers, marking a significant investment in defence cooperation between the two nations.
Moreover, the two countries have signed several agreements in recent months, including a defence cooperation pact in February and an offshore energy cooperation accord in March. In July, the Turkish parliament approved a motion to deploy naval forces to Somalia, further solidifying their military partnership.
Rising Tensions in the Horn of Africa
Turkey’s deepening presence in Somalia comes against the backdrop of growing tension in the region. In January, Ethiopia and Somaliland signed a controversial deal granting Ethiopia access to the Red Sea via Somaliland’s Berbera Port. In exchange, Addis Ababa would formally recognise Somaliland’s independence, a move that has been met with fierce opposition from Somalia and other regional players.
This deal has further complicated the already volatile situation in the Horn of Africa, raising concerns about increasing foreign intervention. Egypt, a long-time ally of Somalia, has thrown its support behind Somalia’s sovereignty. In a show of solidarity, Egypt sent military aid to Mogadishu in August following Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Cairo, reaffirming the close ties between the two nations.
Geopolitical Implications of Turkey’s Space Ambitions
Turkey’s pursuit of a spaceport in Somalia represents not only a major technological leap for the country but also a strategic move to expand its influence in East Africa. As the Horn of Africa continues to experience geopolitical turbulence, Turkey’s increasing military and economic involvement in Somalia could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region.
With Turkey’s space ambitions gaining momentum, and amid growing foreign interest in Somalia, the outcomes of these discussions could have far-reaching consequences for both countries and the broader Horn of Africa region.
This report is based on information from Bloomberg and other trusted sources.
