Turkey is keeping all options on the table as it seeks to strengthen its national air defense, with Defense Minister Yaşar Güler confirming that Ankara is evaluating the possible purchase of both the U.S.-made Patriot missile system and the Franco-Italian SAMP/T platform. Speaking ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara on July 7-8, Güler said the country's broader objective remains the development of a comprehensive, domestically integrated air and missile defense network.
According to the minister, Turkey's policy is guided by clear principles when considering defense partnerships. "We are open to any form of cooperation that meets our national security requirements, includes technology transfer, joint production, is sustainable, and reflects the spirit of the Alliance," Güler said. He noted that technical and political consultations with the countries involved are continuing on a regular basis.
At the same time, Ankara remains focused on expanding its own defense industry, which has rapidly reduced the country's reliance on foreign suppliers over the past several years. A central element of that strategy is the national "Steel Dome" integrated air defense system, unveiled in 2024. The project will combine Turkish-produced missile systems, radars, electro-optical sensors, communications networks and command centers into a unified shield capable of countering threats at low, medium and high altitudes. Güler said the system would be completed "as soon as possible."
