Turkey has significantly bolstered Somalia’s military capabilities by delivering T129 Atak combat helicopters and utility helicopters. This move is part of a broader defense pact aimed at enhancing Somalia’s fight against the al-Qaeda-backed al-Shabaab terror group and securing its maritime territories.
Turkey Bolsters Somalia’s Defense Capabilities with Helicopter Delivery
Turkey has delivered a crucial military aid package to Somalia, including three T129 Atak attack helicopters for the Somali Air Force and two utility helicopters for the Somali Navy. This delivery is a direct outcome of a defense agreement signed between the two nations in February 2024, which also mandates Turkey to assist in establishing a naval force for Mogadishu.
Key Takeaways
- Turkey supplied three T129 Atak combat helicopters and two utility helicopters to Somalia.
- The delivery is part of a defense pact signed in February 2024.
- Somali pilots have undergone training in Turkey to operate the Atak helicopters.
- The aid aims to strengthen Somalia’s fight against al-Shabaab and secure its maritime borders.
Strategic Military Cooperation
The recent shipment of helicopters underscores Turkey’s deepening military engagement with Somalia. The T129 Atak helicopters, produced by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), are widely used by the Turkish military and are expected to significantly enhance Somalia’s counter-terrorism efforts. The utility helicopters will support the Somali Navy, particularly in securing its coastlines.
This military assistance follows a period of intensive training for Somali pilots in Turkey, ensuring they are proficient in operating the new aircraft. The delivery itself was facilitated by multiple Turkish A400M and Qatari C-17A transport aircraft, indicating a well-coordinated logistical operation.
Broader Implications of the Defense Pact
The defense agreement between Turkey and Somalia is a comprehensive 10-year pact designed to improve Somalia’s overall military readiness. Beyond the helicopter delivery, Turkey has also increased its military presence in Mogadishu, deploying approximately 500 troops. These forces are tasked with protecting Turkish military installations, such as the Turksom base, operating armed drones like the TB2 Bayraktar and Akinci drones, and securing key ports.
This enhanced cooperation comes at a time when Somalia faces a resurgence of al-Shabaab attacks and an ongoing maritime dispute. Turkey’s support is seen as crucial for stabilizing the nation ahead of planned elections in 2026, which aim to transition to a direct voting system.
Turkey’s Growing Influence in Somalia
Turkey’s relationship with Somalia has evolved significantly since President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s humanitarian visit in 2011. It has transformed into a robust commercial and security partnership. In addition to military aid, Turkey signed an energy exploration and drilling agreement with Somalia last year, with potential for future energy discoveries.
This increased Turkish involvement signals Ankara’s intent to prevent a power vacuum in Somalia, especially as other international partners, such as the United States, have scaled back some of their assistance. Turkey’s comprehensive approach, combining military support, training, and economic cooperation, aims to build an integrated war capacity for Somalia and foster long-term stability.
Sources
- Turkey Said to Supply Somalia’s Military With Combat Helicopters, Bloomberg.
- Turkey delivers T129 Atak helicopters to Somalia, Middle East Eye.
- Turkey supplies combat, Utility Helicopters to Somalia, Hiiraan.
