Türkiye has begun rewriting its defense playbook. At a high-profile ceremony in Ankara this week, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan handed over the country’s new Sky Dome system to the armed forces—signaling a major leap in air defense capability.
The system, valued at $460 million and built with 47 vehicles, is designed to shield Türkiye from aerial threats. Erdoğan was blunt in his speech: “A country that does not build its own air defense system cannot be confident about the future.”
Underground Bunkers Across 81 Provinces
Even more striking was a report by Turkish broadcaster NTV, which revealed government plans to construct underground shelters in all 81 provinces. Analysts believe this is part of a broader push to prepare the nation for the possibility of a large-scale war—giving ordinary citizens protection alongside military defenses.
Türkiye’s “Steel Dome”
The Sky Dome is just the start. Erdoğan announced that three HISAR medium-range air defense units and 21 additional vehicles will soon be integrated, forming what officials describe as a “Steel Dome” around the country. With this, Türkiye moves into a new league of strategic defense, joining nations like Israel and Russia that operate advanced layered shield systems.
Weapons for Friends, Not Just for Itself
Türkiye is not only protecting its own skies—it is also exporting power. Erdoğan noted that the country’s defense technology is now in demand across the globe. With 83% localization in defense production, Turkish arms and systems are being used in 185 countries, pushing annual defense exports to $7.5 billion. By supplying allies, Türkiye is turning military technology into diplomatic leverage.
A Model for the Muslim World
From Syria to Pakistan, Türkiye has long been active in conflicts and diplomacy. But with Sky Dome, Steel Dome, and underground shelter programs, experts say Ankara is positioning itself as the safest and most self-reliant Muslim nation. For many in the Islamic world, Türkiye is emerging as a model of how military preparedness can translate into political strength and global influence.
