Turkey has signed approximately $6.5 billion in contracts to accelerate development of its multi-layered Steel Dome air defense system. First unveiled in 2024, the system aims to provide Iron-Dome-style protection using AI-enhanced sensors, radars, interceptors, and command networks. It incorporates 47 components sourced entirely from Turkish industry. The initiative gained momentum amid regional tensions and reflects Ankara’s objective to reduce foreign defense reliance from 80% in the 2000s to under 20% today. Earlier deliveries worth $460 million included Hisar O 100, Siper systems, Alp radars, Puhu and Redet EW platforms, and Korkut air defense vehicles. Turkish defense exports reached $7.15 billion in 2024, with projections exceeding $8 billion in 2025.
