Türkiye is preparing to conduct tests of its advanced ballistic missile systems, including the long-range Tayfun and Cenk, at a new military base under construction in Somalia.
The Bora missile, with a range of up to 300 kilometers, has been part of Türkiye’s defense inventory for years. However, Türkiye is now focused on extending missile ranges with the Tayfun and Cenk systems. Tayfun, which underwent its second test in 2023, is expected to reach a range of 1,000 kilometers. Meanwhile, the Cenk missile, under development by Roketsan, is projected to surpass 1,000 kilometers and enhance Türkiye’s global missile capabilities.
Somalia’s strategic geography, offering access to open ocean areas, makes it a key location for these tests, particularly those aimed at missiles exceeding 1,000 kilometers in range. Defense experts note that Türkiye is developing missiles with ranges of up to 3,000 kilometers, necessitating test sites like Somalia.
This initiative aligns with Türkiye’s broader defense strategy amidst global conflicts, aiming to enhance its missile technology, reduce launch costs, and develop reusable rocket systems. The missile testing projects are part of an ambitious program with an estimated cost of $6 billion, setting the stage for significant advancements in Türkiye’s defense technology over the next five years.
