Turkey Wants Ballistic Missile Test Range, Spaceport in Somalia

Turkey Negotiates With Somalia to Build Military Base

Turkey is in talks to build a military base in Somalia that would include a ballistic missile test range and a spaceport, according to unnamed Turkish and Somali officials who spoke to the Financial Times. The base would be part of Turkey's expanding military footprint in Africa, which already includes bases in Djibouti and Senegal.

The potential base in Somalia would be a significant development for Turkey, which has been seeking to increase its influence in the Horn of Africa. Somalia has been wracked by conflict for decades, but Turkey has been one of the few countries to maintain a diplomatic presence in the country throughout that time.

What's in it for Somalia?

For Somalia, the base would provide much-needed security assistance in the fight against al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked terrorist group that controls large parts of the country. The base would also help Somalia develop its space program, which is still in its early stages.

The talks between Turkey and Somalia are still ongoing, and it is unclear when or if a deal will be reached. However, the potential base would be a significant development for both countries.

The Strategic Importance of Somalia

Somalia is strategically located on the Horn of Africa, which is a key shipping route for oil and other goods. The country also has a long coastline on the Indian Ocean, which makes it an important location for naval operations.

Turkey has been increasing its military presence in Africa in recent years, and a base in Somalia would be a key part of that strategy. The base would allow Turkey to project power into the Indian Ocean and the Horn of Africa, and it would also give Turkey a foothold in a region that is increasingly important for global trade.