ANKARA (KAAB TV) – Turkey has strengthened its military partnership with Somalia by delivering three T129 ATAK helicopters, officials confirmed to Shabelle Radio following a phone conversation between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Saturday.
In addition to the ATAK helicopters, Turkey has also transferred two utility helicopters to the Somali Navy as part of a broader defense agreement signed between the two countries in February 2024. The agreement includes Turkish support for training and building professional naval forces in Somalia.
Last year, several Somali pilots completed training in Turkey to operate the T129 helicopters. The aircraft were recently transported to Mogadishu following the pilots’ final qualification.
President Erdoğan emphasized that Turkey will continue and expand its support for Somalia in the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab, according to a statement released by the Turkish Presidency.
This military assistance comes at a politically sensitive time in Somalia, as the country prepares for its 2026 elections. The Somali government has expressed its intention to hold direct elections, a move opposed by some opposition groups.
Turkey remains a key strategic partner to Somalia, not only in defense but also in economic development. Turkish-operated firms currently manage vital infrastructure such as Mogadishu’s airport and seaport—major sources of revenue for the Somali government.