NextFin news, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan formally inaugurated Turkey's new integrated air defense system, the “Steel Dome,” on Wednesday at the Ankara facilities of defense contractor Aselsan. Erdogan described the event as a watershed moment for the country's defense capabilities and industry.
The Steel Dome system integrates sea-based and land-based air defense platforms and radar sensors into a single network designed to protect Turkish airspace. The latest phase of the project includes 47 vehicles valued at $460 million, although the government has not specified when the system will be fully operational.
Speaking at the inauguration, Erdogan said, “These systems are a show of strength for Turkey. In air defense, we are ushering in a new era for our beloved Turkey.” He emphasized the importance of developing indigenous radar and air defense systems to face current regional security challenges confidently.
The project was announced in August 2024 and reflects Turkey's ongoing efforts to achieve defense self-sufficiency, especially after its 2019 acquisition of Russian S-400 missile systems led to its removal from the U.S.-led F-35 stealth jet program.
Erdogan also highlighted regional conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and recent Israeli attacks on Iran as factors increasing the need for enhanced air defense capabilities.
In addition to unveiling the Steel Dome, Erdogan inaugurated new production facilities at Aselsan's Ogulbey campus, scheduled to open in 2026. He stated, “In the next 50 years, Turkey will be a country that not only meets its own needs but also leads the world with its technology.”
Turkey has invested heavily in its defense industry since a U.S. arms embargo following the 1974 Cyprus intervention, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Defense Industries Secretary Haluk Görgün noted that Turkey's defense sector reached an 83 percent localization rate with exports nearing $7.5 billion to 185 countries last year.
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