Türkiye supports Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts with military aid, UCAVs

Türkiye has intensified its support for Somalia’s counterterrorism operations, deploying unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), offering military training, and strengthening bilateral defense cooperation to help stabilize the Horn of Africa nation, according to Türkiye daily.

Bayraktar TB2, Akinci UCAVs, and ATAK helicopters in use

Türkiye has reportedly delivered advanced unmanned systems, including Turkish drone maker Baykar’s Bayraktar TB2s and Akinci unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), to the Somali government as part of a broader effort to enhance Somalia’s national security.

• Bayraktar TB2s were initially sent in 2022 to support surveillance and strike missions.
• Akinci UCAVs, delivered recently via A400M military transport aircraft, have already become operational.
• Talks are ongoing regarding the delivery of T129 Atak helicopters to further support counterterrorism mobility and firepower.

These aerial systems are actively used to protect Mogadishu’s internationally recognized government from terrorist threats, particularly al-Shabaab.

Turkish Task Force Somalia Command provides tactical military support

The Turkish Armed Forces are providing extensive military training to Somali troops through the Turkish Task Force Somalia Command (STGK in Turkish acronym), which operates in coordination with the Somali government.

However, sources emphasize that Turkish forces will not engage in direct combat operations.

The Turkish task force’s role is to support the Somali military with tactical planning and operational guidance in its fight against terrorist elements. Security measures around the Turkish forces in Somalia’s command headquarters have also been heightened due to recent developments.

Türkiye’s broader military aid effort

Somalia is one of 47 countries receiving military assistance from Türkiye.

Ankara continues to maintain its influence in the region through direct defense, cooperation, training, and arms support, aligning with its strategic interests in the Horn of Africa.

Somalian President visits Ankara after surviving an assassination attempt

Following a recent assassination attempt, Somalian President Hasan Sheikh Mohamud traveled to Ankara and met with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

According to a statement from the Turkish Communications Directorate, both leaders discussed bilateral ties, global and regional issues.

During the meeting held at the presidential complex in Ankara, Erdogan said Ankara gives importance to Somalia’s peace, security and territorial integrity, and Türkiye’s support will continue uninterrupted in the process of establishing permanent peace and stability with Ethiopia.

President Erdogan said cooperation with Somalia in the fight against terrorism will continue to increase, and Türkiye has always stood by the Somali people against terrorism.

He also underlined the importance of cooperation between Türkiye and Somalia in the fields of economy, trade, security, and defense.

Strategic significance of Türkiye-Somalia partnership

Türkiye views its presence in Somalia as crucial to maintaining its strategic position in the Horn of Africa.

Through training missions, UCAV support, and helicopter agreements, Türkiye seeks to contribute to the stabilization and security of the region without direct combat involvement.