ANKARA (KAAB TV) – The Turkish government is bolstering its military presence in Somalia by deploying 500 specialized troops, including counterterrorism and drone warfare experts, in response to territory recently seized by Al-Shabaab militants from Somali government forces.
According to a source familiar with Turkey’s operations in Somalia, speaking to Middle East Eye, “Turkish forces are present solely to protect Turkish assets and to train and advise Somali forces. They will only engage Al-Shabaab if necessary for self-defense.”
The deployment includes 300 commandos and 200 additional soldiers, significantly strengthening Turkey’s operational capacity in the region, particularly in anti-terrorism efforts.
A key feature of the new deployment is the use of the Akinci drone, a domestically produced Turkish unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that surpasses the widely known Bayraktar drones in size and firepower. The Somali National Army has already employed Bayraktar drones in its campaign against Al-Shabaab.
Experts note that the Akinci drone’s 24/7 operational capability and advanced night vision systems provide a tactical advantage in nighttime operations against the militant group.
This military expansion is part of Turkey’s broader support for the Somalia Security Development Plan, which aims to empower Somalia to eventually take full responsibility for its national security.