Erdogan Says Turkey Has Begun Building a Spaceport in Somalia

ISTANBUL — Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey has begun construction of a spaceport in Somalia, describing the project as a strategic partnership that would strengthen Ankara’s ability to access space and contribute to the development of Africa’s space sector.

Erdogan made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 77th International Astronautical Congress, where he outlined Turkey’s ambitions under its national space program.

“In today’s world, producing satellites is not enough to have a presence in space; one must also be able to access space,” Erdogan said.

He said Turkey had therefore made access to space and the development of a spaceport a priority under its national space program.

“Taking into account Türkiye’s geographical conditions, we are laying the foundations for a historic collaboration in the field of space with friendly and brotherly Somalia,” Erdogan said.

He added that construction of the spaceport in Somalia had already begun and that Turkey was continuing efforts to implement what he described as a strategic project.

“With our project, we aim to enhance Türkiye’s capacity to access space while also contributing to the development of the space ecosystem on the African continent,” he said.

The planned facility is part of Turkey’s broader push to develop an independent space program and expand its capabilities in satellite technology and space launches.

Somalia’s location along the Indian Ocean has been cited as a potential advantage for a spaceport because of its proximity to the equator and access to open waters. Launching spacecraft from locations closer to the equator can provide a rotational advantage, potentially reducing the amount of energy required for some launches.

The project also adds a new dimension to the growing partnership between Turkey and Somalia, which has expanded in recent years to include security, infrastructure, trade, energy and development.

Turkey has maintained close relations with Somalia and has invested in major infrastructure projects in the country. Ankara also operates a military training facility in Mogadishu and has provided training and support to Somali security forces.

Erdogan's announcement comes as countries across Africa increasingly seek to develop domestic capabilities in satellite technology and space-based services. African governments have turned to satellites for applications including communications, agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster management and security.

Turkey has sought to establish itself as an emerging player in the global space industry, with its national space program targeting capabilities ranging from satellite development to human spaceflight and lunar exploration.

Erdogan said the Somalia project would serve not only Turkey’s strategic interests but also help expand Africa’s space ecosystem.

The announcement did not provide details on the construction timeline, the planned location of the facility, its launch capacity or the financial arrangements between the two countries.

The project is expected to require significant infrastructure, technical expertise and international coordination before it can support orbital launches.

For Somalia, the planned spaceport could represent one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects and potentially position it as a participant in the growing commercial space industry.

GAROWE ONLINE