Türkiye plans to extend its indigenous Steel Dome air defense system nationwide as part of a broader strategy to strengthen layered air security and boost deterrence capabilities, the Ministry of National Defense (MSB) said Thursday.

Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated during a briefing that “we are investing in our air defense system (Steel Dome) and planning to expand our layered air defense architecture across the entire country.” The system is part of Türkiye’s long-term military modernization, alongside enhancements in missile, drone, naval, and armored platforms.

Defense Priorities and NATO Commitments

The Ministry highlighted that Türkiye has already exceeded NATO’s 2% GDP defense spending benchmark and remains one of the top five contributors to the alliance’s missions. Aktürk added that Türkiye continues to invest in critical defense technologies, including hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missiles, as well as new-generation aircraft carriers and frigates.

“In accordance with Article 3 of the NATO Washington Treaty, our armed forces are kept at a constant state of readiness,” he said.

Iran-Israel Ceasefire and Regional Outlook

Responding to questions on the Iran-Israel conflict, ministry sources welcomed the ceasefire but warned that the confrontation “threatens peace, security, and stability in the region.” They cautioned that attacks on nuclear facilities could cause widespread risk and reiterated Türkiye’s call for diplomatic resolution and adherence to international law.

Türkiye also condemned the June 22 ISIS attack on the Mar Elias Church in Damascus, which killed several civilians, calling it “a crime against all humanity.”

Domestic Security and Border Control

Aktürk provided updates on operations against the PKK and other threats. In the Pençe-Kilit Operation zone, shelters and weapons caches used by PKK fighters were destroyed. From January 1 to date, 2,880 individuals attempting illegal border crossings have been caught and nearly 40,000 prevented.

In Syria, Türkiye has destroyed 168 km of tunnels in Tel Rıfat and 174 km in Manbij used by armed groups. “We will continue cooperation to end ISIS terror in both Türkiye and Syria,” Aktürk said.

Technology, Training, and Disaster Support

MSB revealed the qualification of Türkiye’s first multi-purpose artillery fuse (105–203 mm caliber), developed by the Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE). The ministry also announced the opening of the Gülçin Yarımay R&D Center at Istanbul Technical University to enhance critical underwater technologies.

Meanwhile, the Turkish military conducted joint drills such as Anatolian Eagle 2025 in Konya and participated in multiple search and rescue exercises. MSB helicopters made 189 sorties to extinguish forest fires in 14 locations so far this year.