Turkey says Italian air defense missile system deployed in country under NATO plan

The SAMP-T air defense missile system belonging to Italy was deployed on June 18 in Turkey at the air force command base in Konya. This was reported to journalists by the defense ministry of the republic.

"As part of NATO's standing defense plan, one Italian SAMP-T air defense system has been deployed today at the 3rd main air base of the air force command to strengthen the alliance's air defense," the ministry noted. It was previously reported that an SAMP-T system with Aster 30 missiles was planned to be deployed at the Konya base to protect the region from potential missile threats from the Middle East.

Turkey's air force base in Konya province in central Anatolia is one of the largest and main bases in the country. It is used in NATO operational activities. It hosts Turkish air force F-16 fighters, Boeing E-7T Peace Eagle long-range radar detection aircraft, as well as search and rescue helicopters.

The Turkish defense ministry also reported on strengthening the republic's air defense capabilities. In particular, as noted by the ministry, the newest long-range air defense system Siper in service with the air force hit a high-speed and maneuverable aerial target during tests conducted on June 12 at a range in the Black Sea province of Sinop. "The system demonstrated full operational readiness," the ministry said.

The Siper air defense system is the key and topmost echelon of the multilayered missile defense shield "Steel Dome" being created in Turkey. It will consist of short-range air defense systems, short- and medium-range air defense systems, extended-range systems, and laser defense. "The main goal of the work carried out under the 'Steel Dome' project is to strengthen the multilayered air and missile defense of our country, increase its deterrent potential, and ensure national security at the highest level," the Turkish defense ministry stated.

Source: TASS