Turkey's military on Friday said it was planning to spend close to $1 billion (euro 680 million) for its first long-range missile defence system. The Turkish announcement came a day after US President Barack Obama cancelled a long-planned missile shield for Eastern Europe, replacing a Bush-era project that was opposed by Russia with a plan he contended would better defend against Iranian missiles.
Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Turkey's move was aimed at strengthening the country's defence, rejecting media speculation that the system is meant specifically to protect the country from Iranian missiles. "Turkey's purchase of Patriot (missiles) has nothing to do with Iran or directly with any other country," Davutoglu told CNN-Turk television in an interview on Friday. "There should absolutely be no connection between Patriots and Iran."
The Patriot missile is a long-range weapon, designed to defend against aircraft, ballistic and cruise missiles at high altitudes, made by the US companies Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. Though Davutoglu referred to Patriot missiles, the country has not yet chosen what specific system Turkey would buy. The Defence Ministry said Chinese, Russian and American companies have been invited to present proposals.
A significant part of the Turkish military arsenal is weaponry bought from the United States. Turkish military spokesman Brigadier General Metin Gurak says the system will be mobile units that can act as deterrents wherever they are needed. The companies will submit their offers until October 13. Gurak added that neighbouring Greece has Patriot launching systems and missiles.