Somalia reportedly set to receive Turkish-made T129 Atak attack helicopters
A view of the Atak military helicopter participating in the distinguished observer day activities of the Winter Exercise-2025, organized by the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) in Kars, Türkiye on February 05, 2025 (AA Photo)
Reports indicate that Somalia is set to acquire the T129 Atak attack helicopter, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), marking a significant step in the modernization of its military forces.
This potential acquisition is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the Somali Air Force as it continues to face security threats, particularly from terrorist groups.
With ongoing efforts to combat al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist group, Somalia is reportedly investing in more advanced aerial assets to bolster its defense forces and improve counterterrorism operations.
The T129 Atak, a multi-role helicopter, is seen as a key asset for the Somali military in securing its territory and conducting precise military operations.
T129 Atak: A multi-role attack helicopter
The T129 Atak is designed for close air support, armed reconnaissance, and precision strikes. Based on the A129 Mangusta platform, it has been adapted for the Turkish Armed Forces and is now reportedly gaining interest from several countries, including Somalia.
Known for its agility and versatility, the T129 is equipped with a five-blade main rotor and a two-blade tail rotor, making it effective in operating in difficult environments.
| Length: 14.54 meters (47.7 feet) | Height: 3.95 meters |
| Width: 3.49 meters | Maximum cruise speed: 281 kilometers per hour (152 knots) |
| Crew: Two | Rate of climb: 13.26 meters per second (2610 feet per minute) |
| Main rotor diameter: 11.9 meters | Vertical rate of climb: 7.3 m/sec |
| Maximum take-off mass (MTOW): 5,065 kilograms (11,166 pounds) | Service ceiling: 4,572 meters |
| Endurance: Three hours | In-ground effect (HIGE) ceiling: 4,572 meters |
| In ground effect (HIGE) ceiling: 4,572 meters | Range: 537 kilometers |
| Power: 2 x Turboshaft Engines LHTEC – CTS800-4a Take-off Power 2 x 1024 kw 2 x 1.373 shp | Roles: Attack, precision strike, armed reconnaissance, armed escort, fire support, suppression of enemy air defence, deep strike, security / urban warfare |
The helicopter’s advanced avionics system includes an automatic flight control system, inertial navigation integrated with GPS, and a helmet-mounted sight for rapid target acquisition.
It is powered by two LHTEC T800-4A engines, providing a cruising speed of 269 kilometers/hour and a maximum range of 1,000 kilometers (621.3 miles).
Some of the ammunition that Atak helicopters can use:
- 76 x 70 mm (2.75”) Classic Rockets
- 16 x 70mm (2.75’’) CIRIT Guided ATGM Missiles
- 20 mm Turreted Gun (500 Rounds)
- 8 x STINGER Air-to-Air Missiles
- 8 x UMTAS Anti-Tank Missiles
Strengthening ties between Somalia and Türkiye
The potential integration of the T129 Atak into Somalia’s military reflects the growing defense cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye.
Over recent years, this partnership has expanded, with Türkiye providing Somali forces with training and technology transfers through the establishment of the TURKSOM military base in Mogadishu.
The arrival of the T129 Atak would be a significant milestone in Somalia’s broader military modernization efforts.
In addition to the T129 Atak, Türkiye has reportedly supplied Somalia with the Bayraktar Akinci UCAV, complementing the country’s aerial defense capabilities.
However, the T129 Atak is expected to play a critical role in providing precise fire support and rapid response operations, particularly in regions where terrorist groups operate.
