Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that construction is underway at the ‘Turkish Pentagon’ military complex that will dwarf the US Pentagon in comparison.

The huge new ‘Crescent Star’ complex, scheduled to be completed in May 2023, will house the Ministry of Defence, the office of the chief of general staff, and the headquarters of all branches of the Turkish Armed Forces.

During a ceremony on Monday, President Erdogan said Crescent Star will be capable of “striking fear” into the heart of any foe.

The Turkish leader announced that the new military compound will cover a vast area of 135.6 million square feet compared to the US Pentagon’s 6.5 million square feet of office space. The complex will also accommodate around 15,000 members of staff.

The design is based on the Turkish flag: a white star and crescent on a red background.

A large star-shaped building at the entrance will house an exhibition centre while a crescent-shaped building will flank an outside area planned for ceremonies and events.

President Erdogan said: “We will be establishing a structure here that will strike fear to our enemies with its standing, and give confidence to our friends.”

The ceremony took place on the 99th anniversary of Victory Day, also known as Turkish Armed Forces Day, marking one of the key battles that led to the country’s independence in the 1920s.

The complex is the latest addition to Turkey’s growing military might with President Erdogan looking to boost his popularity ahead of the election in 2023.

In recent years, Turkey has also focused on national production of military equipment and arms as well as organising the design and construction of its own warship.