Ankara: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday that his country aims to soon build its own “Steel Dome” multilayer air defense system. He also said that Türkiye will also increase its long-range missile capabilities. NATO member Turkey has significantly reduced its dependence on external suppliers of defense equipment in recent years. Earlier, Turkey had purchased S-400 defense system from Russia but could not deploy it due to fear of America. On the other hand, America has avoided giving its Patriot missile system to Turkey due to its closeness to Russia. In such a situation, Türkiye is developing its own air defense system.
Comparison of Steel Dome with Iron Dome
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the indigenous Gokbay helicopter built by the Gendarmerie at the headquarters of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), Erdogan compared the “Steel Dome” to Israel’s famous “Iron Dome”. Iron Dome is Israel’s short-range air defense system, which is capable of stopping enemy attacks like mortars, rockets and drones. It is also called Israel’s first line of defense. Israel has deployed this system extensively on the Gaza Strip, West Bank and Syrian border.
Erdogan said- We will also have steel dome
Erdogan said, “Now it can be better understood how important our multilayer air defense system is for our security. If they (Israel) have ‘Iron Dome’, we will have ‘Steel Dome’. We You won’t look at them and say why we don’t have this.” During this time he did not give any deadline for the construction of the steel dome. “We will also enhance our long-range missile capabilities during this period,” he said. Erdogan said Türkiye “will not rest” until it gains full independence in the defense industry.
How powerful is the Israeli Iron Dome?
Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system was designed to intercept rockets fired into its territory. It was included in the Israeli Army in 2011. It uses truck-towed units of radar-guided missiles to engage short-range threats such as rockets, mortars and drones. Israel also deployed a naval version of Iron Dome in 2017 to protect ships and sea-based assets. This system determines whether a rocket is going to attack a populated area. If it does not, the rocket is ignored and allowed to fall unharmed.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Defense Expert
Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. With us is Dr. Aylin Kara, a renowned defense analyst and expert on military technology. Dr. Kara, Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recently announced plans for a “Steel Dome” multilayer air defense system. What implications does this have for Turkey’s defense strategy?
Dr. Kara: Good morning, and thank you for having me. The announcement marks a significant shift in Turkey’s defense posture. Developing an indigenous air defense system like the “Steel Dome” not only enhances Turkey’s military capabilities but also reflects its desire to reduce dependence on foreign defense suppliers. This is particularly crucial given the complexities in Turkey’s relationships with NATO partners, especially the U.S.
Editor: That’s an interesting point. Turkey previously purchased the S-400 system from Russia, yet there have been complications surrounding its deployment due to U.S. concerns. How does this affect Turkey’s strategic defense choices?
Dr. Kara: The S-400 situation exemplifies the challenges Turkey faces in its geopolitical landscape. The inability to deploy the S-400 effectively has pushed Turkey to reconsider its defense autonomy. By developing the “Steel Dome,” Turkey aims to ensure that its air defense capabilities are not only domestically produced but also better integrated with its specific security needs.
Editor: Speaking of integration, you mentioned the “Steel Dome” in relation to the Israeli Iron Dome. How do you see Turkish air defense systems comparing with their Israeli counterparts?
Dr. Kara: While both systems share the common goal of intercepting incoming threats, there are key differences. The Iron Dome is a well-tested system, renowned for its effectiveness against a variety of aerial threats. The “Steel Dome” is still under development, so it remains to be seen how it will perform in real-world scenarios. However, Turkey has strong capabilities in drone technology and missile defense, suggesting that the “Steel Dome” could incorporate advanced technologies that may enhance its performance.
Editor: Turkey’s move towards an indigenous defense system is quite significant. What does this mean for its relationships within NATO and with other nations?
Dr. Kara: Turkey’s drive for self-sufficiency could create tensions within NATO, particularly as the alliance grapples with a unified approach to defense technologies. Other NATO members may be concerned about Turkey’s increasing ties with Russia, especially if they believe it compromises collective security. However, if Turkey successfully develops the “Steel Dome,” it could bolster its negotiating power within NATO and create potential partnerships in defense procurement and collaboration among member states.
Editor: Are there any potential challenges that Turkey might face as it pursues the development of the “Steel Dome”?
Dr. Kara: Absolutely. Developing a complex defense system like the ”Steel Dome” requires significant financial investment, technological expertise, and time. There may also be issues related to international collaboration, as some nations might hesitate to share technology with Turkey. Additionally, the geopolitical landscape can shift rapidly, affecting funding and support for the project.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kara, for sharing your insights with us today. The development of Turkey’s “Steel Dome” certainly presents a complex interplay of technological ambition, strategic necessity, and international relations.
Dr. Kara: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time in defense technology, and it will be fascinating to see how Turkey navigates its goals in this rapidly evolving arena.