Türkiye reportedly nears completion of rocket launch facility in Somalia
Turkey's first domestic and national communication satellite, Turksat 6A, was launched into space at 02:30 Turkish time from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, USA, by SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, Florida, July 9, 2024 (AA Photo)
Türkiye is approaching the final stages of building a rocket launch facility in Somalia, according to Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Speaking reportedly to Military Africa, Mohamud emphasized that the facility will provide significant job opportunities and revenue for the East African nation.
The exact location of the launch site has not been disclosed, but Somalia’s proximity to the equator and access to the Indian Ocean make it an ideal location for rocket launches.
These geographical advantages reduce energy requirements for launches and ensure debris can safely fall into unpopulated ocean areas.
The facility, initiated in December 2024, is a critical part of Türkiye’s 10-year space program, launched in 2021. The program aims to position Türkiye as a regional and global space power, with objectives including the development of satellite systems and the establishment of spaceports.
Türkiye’s growing presence in Somalia
Türkiye has made significant investments in Somalia across multiple sectors, including health, education, defense, and energy.
Since 2017, the Turkish Armed Forces have trained Somalia soldiers at the TURKSOM military camp. In August 2024, Türkiye delivered at least 450 MPT-76 assault rifles to Somalia under a relaxed United Nations arms embargo.
The embargo, imposed at the start of Somalia’s civil war, was amended in 2013 to allow light weapons sales.
In February 2024, Türkiye and Somalia signed an agreement granting Türkiye 30% of Somalia’s exclusive economic zone revenue in exchange for reconstructing, equipping, and training the Somali Navy.
In 2017, a comprehensive program was launched to enhance the Somali National Army’s operational capacity by establishing the TURKSOM Military Training Base in Somalia.
In order to shape the Somali security forces in accordance with local conditions and to protect the territorial integrity of Somalia, a wide range of assistance is provided, from military training to operative support in the conflict area. Türkiye also provides training for the Somali Police Force, including the Haramcad public order units.
Türkiye also makes significant contributions to Somalia’s infrastructure and economic development. In this context, the modernization of Mogadishu Airport and Mogadishu Port, the rehabilitation of main roads and the improvement of public services are concrete indicators of Türkiye’s interest in the development of Somalia.
Strategic implications for both nations
Somalia President Mohamud underlined the broader significance of Türkiye’s investments, stating, “The importance of Somalia hosting a launchpad for Turkish satellites is even more significant than the billions of dollars and opportunities that the project will generate.”
The partnership strengthens Türkiye’s influence in the Horn of Africa while offering Somalia the chance to become a pivotal regional actor.
Historical ties and economic growth
The relationship between Türkiye and Somalia dates back to the Ottoman Empire
Diplomatic ties were officially established in 1979, but Türkiye’s presence in Somalia grew significantly after reopening its embassy in Mogadishu in 2011 following a 20-year closure due to Somalia’s civil war.
Trade between the two nations has also increased, reaching $389 million in 2022.
Türkiye exported $386 million worth of goods to Somalia, including pasta, while Somalia exported $2.5 million, mainly in oily seeds.
