Türkiye to Implement ‘Steel Dome’ Air Defence System: Erdogan

Ankara, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye is set to advance its military capabilities with the implementation of the “Steel Dome” air defence system, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Saturday. The initiative, which aims to integrate the country’s layered air defence systems, was unveiled during the Air War College Commencement and Flag Handover Ceremony.

“Hopefully, we will carry out our ‘Steel Dome’ project with all of its components. If they [Israel] have the Iron Dome, we will also have the Steel Dome,” Erdogan declared, highlighting the ambitious nature of the project.

The “Steel Dome” is expected to ensure seamless integration between Türkiye’s air defence systems, sensors, and weaponry. This development is part of a broader effort to strengthen the nation’s military capabilities, particularly in the realm of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, which Erdogan emphasized is gaining global attention.

“The momentum we have gained in unmanned aerial vehicles is being watched with envy not only by our friendly and brotherly nations but all over the world,” Erdogan stated. He added that with the impending commissioning of the Kizilelma and ANKA-3 UAVs, whose tests are currently ongoing, Türkiye is poised to enter a “new league” in this domain.

Reiterating Türkiye’s commitment to military advancement, Erdogan underscored efforts to fulfill the needs of the Turkish Air Force, from missile development to air defence systems. “We are working to manufacture, develop, or procure whatever our Air Force requires,” he affirmed.

Erdogan also addressed Türkiye’s ongoing military operations, specifically Operation Claw-Lock, launched in 2022 to target PKK terrorist hideouts in northern Iraq. He assured that these efforts would continue until separatists no longer pose a threat to both Türkiye and its Iraqi neighbors.

Criticizing some allies for their lack of support, Erdogan remarked, “Some allies, instead of supporting Türkiye, did not hesitate to openly support the PKK’s Syrian extension and to welcome the leaders of the separatist terrorist organization with red carpets.” He emphasized Türkiye’s reliance on its own strength and capabilities in overcoming such challenges.

The Turkish President also reflected on the resilience of the Turkish Armed Forces, particularly in overcoming the 2016 coup attempt orchestrated by the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO). “We not only uprooted the FETO treason gang that grew like a malignant tumour for nearly 40 years, but we also strengthened our army in every field,” Erdogan said.

Erdogan concluded by affirming Türkiye’s solidarity with its allies, citing the country’s support in regions such as Libya, Somalia, and Azerbaijan. He stressed that the Turkish Armed Forces have achieved remarkable success beyond Türkiye’s borders, unmatched by any other army in such a short period.

This announcement marks a significant step in Türkiye’s ongoing efforts to fortify its defence capabilities and assert its influence on the global stage.