Turkey deploys F-16 fighters to strengthen military operations in Somalia

SellTheBounce · 2026-02-09T13:17:39+00:00

Turkey has increased the deployment of F-16 fighters and attack helicopters to Somalia, strengthening its defense involvement in Africa and collaborating with the United States to combat "Al-Shabaab" and ISIS. Since 2017, Turkey has established a military training system in Somalia and plans to conduct oil exploration, demonstrating its long-term strategic layout in both military and economic aspects.

SellTheBounce

2026-02-09 13:17:39

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Turkey has dispatched additional F-16 fighters and attack helicopters to Somalia, marking a further escalation of Ankara’s defense involvement in the African region. According to multiple reports, this deployment aims to jointly combat the “Al-Shabaab” militants while consolidating Turkey’s strategic position in the country.

US-Turkey Joint Deepens Military Cooperation

In recent months, Turkey and the United States have established a coordinated counter-terrorism operation mechanism. Besides supporting efforts against “Al-Shabaab,” the U.S. has also targeted ISIS militants as a primary objective. The Somali government has recently undergone cabinet reshuffles, replacing military leadership to strengthen the crackdown on militants. This indicates that combating extremist organizations has become a shared priority for Somalia, Turkey, and the U.S.

Turkey’s Long-term Strategic Layout

Turkey’s presence in Somalia extends far beyond military dimensions. Since 2017, Ankara has established a comprehensive military training system in Mogadishu, continuously training Somali soldiers and enhancing their combat capabilities. Additionally, Turkey is expanding its influence through defense, energy, and infrastructure projects, laying a solid foundation in the East African region.

Notably, Turkey plans to conduct oil exploration along the Somali coast, reflecting its long-term strategic planning not only in military defense but also in economic and energy sectors. By deploying advanced weapon systems such as F-16 fighters, Turkey is protecting its interests in the region and shaping the security landscape of East Africa.

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