Turkish defense companies have embarked on a significant initiative, signing contracts totaling approximately $6.5 billion to enhance the production of the multi-layered “Steel Dome” air defense system. This ambitious project was first unveiled in 2024, with comparisons drawn to Israel’s renowned Iron Dome, as it aims to harness artificial intelligence to provide robust protection against air and missile threats across varied ranges and altitudes.
The Steel Dome is a comprehensive system that incorporates 47 distinct components, including advanced radars, missiles, electro-optical sensors, command centers, and both short- and long-range air defense assets. Notably, the program is spearheaded by state-owned companies Roketsan and Aselsan, collaborating with other local enterprises to ensure that the system is built entirely on domestic technology.
Haluk Görgün, the Chairman of the Turkish Presidency of Defense Industries, highlighted that the recently established contracts encompass both existing combat systems and their upgraded iterations. This development is seen as a crucial step in Turkey’s strategic response to escalating regional tensions, particularly in light of ongoing military operations in Gaza, alongside conflicts in Iran, Lebanon, Syria, and the protracted war between Ukraine and Russia.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has positioned the Steel Dome initiative as central to fortifying Turkey’s defense capabilities, with intentions to create a deterrent force that will discourage any potential aggressors. In addition to the primary developers, the program also leverages the expertise of significant domestic entities such as TÜBITAK SAGE and the Machine and Chemical Industry.
Prior to the substantial investment in the Steel Dome, Turkey had already enhanced its air defense capabilities through the acquisition of various components worth $460 million earlier this year. This included systems like the Hisar O 100 and Siper air defense systems, as well as advanced radar and electronic warfare systems.
The collective defense projects undertaken by Turkey reflect a determined effort to diminish reliance on foreign suppliers, which has plummeted from approximately 80 percent in the early 2000s to below 20 percent today. Moreover, the growing defense exports—driven largely by combat drones—hit $7.15 billion in 2024, marking an increase from $5.5 billion in 2023, with expectations surpassing $8 billion by 2025.
