Turkey’s Military Expansion in Somalia: A New Chapter in Regional Security

As dawn breaks over Mogadishu Sea Port, the presence of the Turkish Navy Ship F514 symbolically anchors a new phase in international military collaboration. Turkish marine forces stand guard with a palpable sense of purpose. On April 23, 2024, the strategy for Somalia’s security landscape takes a decisive turn as Turkey deploys 500 troops to reinforce its military efforts against the persistent threat of al-Shabaab. The stakes could not be higher.

Why is this deployment critical? The answer lies in Turkey’s recognition of recent territorial advances made by al-Shabaab, a militant group that has plagued Somalia for over a decade. The troops will bolster Turkey’s existing contingent, amplifying its military presence from 300 personnel to an impressive 800. Among this new group are 300 commandos and 200 specialists aimed specifically at enhancing drone operations. As one anonymous source explained to Middle East Eye, “The Turkish troops are there solely for the protection of Turkish assets, aimed at training and advising Somali forces. Engagement with al-Shabaab will only occur when absolutely necessary, and always in self-defense.”

Incorporating sophisticated technology into the battle against terrorism, Turkey is deploying Akinci drones—an evolution of its widely known Bayraktar drones. Equipped with advanced night vision capabilities, these drones can fly for up to 24 hours, serving as potent tools against al-Shabaab’s nocturnal maneuvers. Imagine the tactical advantage: a sky filled with silent observers, gathering intelligence and targeting threats while Somali forces prepare for ground engagement. Experts suggest that this elevated tactical approach could serve as a game changer in Somalia’s long-standing conflict.

But Turkey’s contributions extend beyond military might. They intertwine with Somalia’s broader Security Sector Development Plan, a roadmap aiming to restore Somalia’s autonomy over its security frameworks. Turkey has committed not only to reinforcing military capacities but also to protecting Somalia’s territorial waters and fostering the development of off-shore resources, including fisheries. What does this mean for the average Somali fisherman, accustomed to operating under the looming shadow of insecurity? It symbolizes hope and a potential for economic rejuvenation.

Yet, Turkey isn’t entering this arena alone. The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is playing a critical role in this complex puzzle, albeit facing significant challenges. Underfunded and approximately 8,000 soldiers short of its deployment goals, AUSSOM depends heavily on the international community for support. The United Nations has stepped up, pledging to cover 75% of AUSSOM’s operational costs. In light of this, they are urgently seeking an additional $41.6 million to ensure effectiveness. How can a nation regain stability when its very security apparatus finds itself starved for resources?

Turkey’s relationship with Somalia isn’t a mere military endeavor. It has a history rooted in education and collaboration. Since the establishment of Camp Turksom in 2017, roughly 16,000 Somali soldiers have undergone training under Turkish supervision; the benefits of this investment are certainly multifaceted. Among the trained troops are elite forces, such as the Gorgor Commandos and members of the Haramcad paramilitary forces, whose capability can substantially alter the dynamics on the ground.

With the signing of a new agreement in 2024, Turkey’s military footprint in Somalia may expand to as many as 2,500 soldiers by 2026. Can we envision a Somalia where the shadow of al-Shabaab is diminished, a nation reclaiming its sovereignty and rebuilding its institutions? This question lingers as Turkish forces join the ongoing international military coalition dedicated to eradicating al-Shabaab, which has managed to lose a third of its territory due to concerted military efforts.

However, the fight is far from over. Al-Shabaab continues to exert its influence, recently seizing the town of Adan Yabaal—a logistics hub just 220 kilometers from the capital. This town has been a battleground, changing hands several times in recent years. While the Somali government asserts it has retaken control, al-Shabaab makes claims that challenge this narrative. Perspectives are varied and opinions diverge, but the stakes are evident: reclaiming lost ground is not just a military objective but also a matter of national pride.

“Turkey is expected to deploy more drones and offer artillery support if necessary,” another source conveyed to Middle East Eye. With this strategic escalation, can Somalia turn the tide in its long-standing battle against extremism? The unfolding narrative holds the potential for a new chapter in resilience and recovery.

As we examine the multifaceted layers of this complex international partnership, the overarching question remains: what does the future hold for Somalia, and how deeply can the foundations of stability be restored in a nation that has endured so much?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring