Türkiye has initiated the construction of a rocket-launching facility in Somalia, marking a significant step in its expanding space ambitions. The facility will support long-range rocket testing, leveraging Somalia’s strategic location at the eastern tip of Africa.
Announcing the development, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud highlighted the economic benefits for the country, including job creation and revenue generation. "This is a partnership that will benefit both nations," Mohamud stated at an event in Mogadishu.
The planned facility is part of Türkiye's broader 10-year space program, unveiled in 2021. Somalia’s location near the equator and its access to the Indian Ocean make it an ideal site for rocket launches, as debris can safely fall into the ocean without threatening residential areas or neighboring countries.
Türkiye's ambitions include developing satellite systems, missions to the moon, and building a viable spaceport. Earlier this year, Türkiye celebrated a milestone in its space program when Alper Gezeravcı became the first Turkish astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), where he stayed for nearly three weeks.
The rocket-launching facility builds on a strong relationship between the two nations. Somalia hosts Türkiye’s largest overseas military training base, which has been instrumental in training Somali security forces. Türkiye has also provided significant development assistance to Somalia over the years.
This project represents a deepening of the partnership, aligning Türkiye’s technological aspirations with Somalia’s economic and infrastructural development.
Türkiye’s entry into the global space race reflects its ambitions to establish itself as a significant player in aerospace and technology. With major global powers dominating the space industry, the rocket-launching facility positions Türkiye to enhance its rocket and satellite launch capabilities.
Somalia’s location provides Türkiye with a competitive advantage for rocket launches, similar to how equatorial regions like French Guiana have been used by other countries for space operations.
While specific details about the project’s timeline and location remain undisclosed, the construction marks a pivotal moment in Türkiye’s technological and geopolitical strategy. As Somalia benefits from economic opportunities, Türkiye strengthens its position in both aerospace innovation and international partnerships.
With its 10-year space roadmap in progress, the rocket-launching facility could accelerate Türkiye’s participation in satellite deployment, interplanetary exploration, and long-range rocket technology, adding a new dimension to its role on the global stage.
