Türkiye has advanced its physical security efforts along the Iran border, deploying a modular steel wall system on a highly challenging 6 km stretch in Van's Başkale district to combat terrorism, smuggling and irregular migration.
The system, used for the first time on this difficult stretch, consists of a 1-meter concrete base topped by 5 meters of steel profiling and 90 centimeters of razor wire. Of the 305 km security wall project launched in 2021, 235 km have been completed. Concrete wall construction continues on the remaining 70 km section of the border in Başkale, the final stage.
Technological Surveillance and Defense
Alongside physical barriers, the border is reinforced with cutting-edge technology. Surveillance towers equipped with electro-optics and elevators, thermal cameras, radar systems, and advanced sensors are deployed. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, and remotely controlled autonomous ground vehicles carry out reconnaissance and surveillance tasks. Camera trap systems placed in culverts instantly detect any attempted crossings.
Air defense is ensured by anti-drone systems, air defense cannons, and turret-mounted armored personnel carriers deployed against UAVs, drones, and paramotors. Sniper teams and commando units are stationed at critical points.
24/7 Border Watch in Harsh Conditions
Mehmetçik troops serving at the 3,055-meter-high Meydan Border Post ensure border security with advanced surveillance despite the difficult terrain and climate. Trained tracking and detection dogs also support the forces in identifying illegal crossings on the rough landscape.
The border units, adhering to the motto 'The border is honor,' continue to combat illegal crossings on the Iran border by integrating physical barriers with technology.
