Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced plans to expedite the development of a 2,000-kilometer-range ballistic missile system.
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Complex, Erdoğan emphasized the importance of bolstering Turkey’s defense capabilities in a region defined by strategic competition.
“Investments in our defense industry are not to prepare for war but to safeguard peace, independence, and sovereignty,” Erdoğan said during his address to the nation.
Positioned at the crossroads of three continents, Turkey’s geographical significance places it at the center of global power dynamics. Erdoğan underscored that survival and stability in this region depend on deterrence.
“In this geography, your strength at the table is derived from the strength of your arm,” Erdoğan stated, adding, “Here, being right is not enough. You must also be strong to protect your rights.”
The President placed particular emphasis on ballistic missile development, revealing plans to enhance current stockpiles and expedite programs for extended-range systems.
“We have resolved to strengthen our stockpile of missiles with a range of 800 kilometers and beyond while accelerating the program to develop missiles with a range exceeding 2,000 kilometers,” Erdoğan explained.
Turkey’s missile program could reshape the regional balance of power, extending its strategic reach across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.