Türkiye to test Tayfun, Cenk and Bora missiles in Somalia

Türkiye is gearing up to test its advanced ballistic missile systems, including the long-range Tayfun and Cenk, at a new military base under construction in Somalia.

While the Bora missile has been part of the Turkish arsenal for years, development continues on longer-range systems designed to exceed 1,000 kilometers (621.3 miles), such as Tayfun and Cenk.

Expanding Türkiye’s missile capabilities

Surrounded by regional conflicts and rising global tensions, Türkiye is ramping up its defense efforts across air, land and sea. Ongoing conflicts, such as those between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Iran, have highlighted the increasing importance of missile and air defense systems.

The Bora missile, with a range of up to 300 kilometers, has been a mainstay in Türkiye’s defense inventory for several years. The Tayfun missile, first tested in 2022 from Rize-Artvin Airport, recently underwent a second test. During its initial trial, Tayfun reached a range of 600 kilometers. Efforts are now focused on extending its range to 1,000 kilometers.

Türkiye’s first medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM), Cenk, is being developed under a highly confidential program by Roketsan. Cenk is expected to surpass a range of 1,000 kilometers, marking a pivotal advancement in Türkiye’s missile technology.

Once operational, it will elevate the country’s position in global missile capabilities. The missile, featuring cutting-edge technology, is projected to rank among the world’s most advanced MRBMs, with the first test launch anticipated soon.

Somalia’s strategic role in testing

Defense expert Turan Oguz emphasized the strategic importance of Somalia for Türkiye’s missile testing program. “We successfully tested up to 550 kilometers over the Black Sea, but conducting tests beyond 1,000 kilometers requires specific geographical conditions. Somalia is one of the top three global locations for such tests because of its access to open ocean areas,” Oguz explained.

Oguz highlighted Türkiye’s current development of ballistic missiles with ranges between 1,000 and 3,000 kilometers and underscored Somalia’s vital role in facilitating these tests.

Looking ahead: Ambitious goals

Oguz also noted Türkiye’s efforts in developing hybrid propulsion systems aimed at reducing costs and its research into reusable rocket technology. While the facility in Igneada can test missiles with ranges up to 700 kilometers, longer-range tests require external sites like the planned base in Somalia.

The initial phase of these projects is expected to cost approximately $6 billion. “The next five years will be critical for advancements in both space access and ballistic missile development. We’ve laid the groundwork, and now we’re accelerating progress,” Oguz said.

Türkiye’s investments in missile technology and its strategic partnerships reflect its determination to establish itself as a leader in global defense innovation.