Wednesday December 18, 2024
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with its Crew Dragon capsule launches from pad LC-39A during Axiom Mission Three (Ax-3) at the Kennedy Space Center, in Cape Canaveral, Florida, on January 18, 2024. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP)
Mogadishu (HOL) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has confirmed that Turkey will establish a satellite launch base in Somalia, advancing Ankara's ambitions for long-range missile testing and space exploration while cementing its growing ties with the Horn of Africa nation.
The satellite launch base, which will leverage Somalia's strategic location near the equator, is poised to bolster Turkey's space program by facilitating efficient rocket launches over the Indian Ocean. At an event in Mogadishu, President Mohamud highlighted the project's transformative potential for Somalia, emphasizing its economic and strategic importance.
"The significance of Somalia hosting Turkey's satellite launch base goes beyond billions of dollars in investment—it demonstrates Somalia's strategic role in the global arena," President Mohamud said.
Somalia stands to gain from significant job creation and increased foreign investment, both critical for a nation rebuilding after decades of conflict. Turkish media have reported that the project will cost upwards of $6 billion USD. However, the project also raises questions about sovereignty and security, particularly with ongoing threats from al-Shabaab militants.
Local responses to the project have been mixed. While some hail it as a step toward modernization, others caution against neglecting pressing domestic issues such as healthcare or education and increasing the dependency on foreign powers.
Turkey's relationship with Somalia has grown steadily since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's 2011 visit, which was marked by large-scale infrastructure investments and humanitarian aid. Turkey's largest overseas military base, located in Mogadishu, plays a critical role in training Somali forces and enhancing regional security.
In addition to the spaceport, the two nations have signed agreements for offshore energy exploration and defence collaboration, further cementing their partnership. Turkish officials have also indicated plans for hydrocarbon exploration off Somalia's coast, signalling a long-term commitment to the Horn of Africa nation.
For Turkey, the spaceport marks a critical step in its ambitious 10-year space program, which includes plans for a soft moon landing by 2028. Establishing a launch site in Somalia will allow Ankara to reduce its reliance on foreign facilities and expand its long-range missile testing and satellite deployment capabilities.
