Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has officially unveiled Turkey's integrated air defense system, known as Steel Dome, calling it a turning point for the country and its defense industry, the AP reports.
"These systems are a show of strength for Turkey. In air defense we are ushering in a new era for our beloved Turkey," he stressed.
The head of state also announced that the final phase of the project includes 47 vehicles worth $460 million. However, he did not specify when the system would be fully functional.
The start of development of the Steel Dome project was announced in August last year. The project combines sea and land platforms, as well as air defense sensors, into a single network.
"No country that cannot develop its own radar and air defense system can look to its future with confidence in the face of current security challenges, especially in our region," Erdogan said.
Turkey previously sought to strengthen its air defense by purchasing the S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems from Russia in 2019. However, the country is now relying on its own developments.