Turkey explores missile options

Turkey is interested in pursuing ballistic missile technology in an effort to protect its national security interests, UPI quoted a defense official as saying. An official in the Turkish Defense Ministry told daily newspaper Today's Zaman, on condition of anonymity, that Ankara was exploring its defense options in light of emerging security challenges. "There are ongoing meetings on what can be done regarding ballistic missiles," the official said. "The establishment of satellite launch vehicles will provide the capability of sending missiles outside the atmosphere." The Turkish newspaper suggested the United States, China and Russia may be among the contenders for a future ballistic missile defense system for Turkish defense.