Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Turkish Navy warships arrived at Mogadishu’s seaport on Tuesday as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security between Somalia and Turkey. A high-level Somali delegation, led by State Minister for Defense Omar Abdi Ali, officially welcomed the ships on Wednesday. The reception also included Somali National Army Commander Brig. Gen. Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, who oversees both the navy and coast guard, senior naval officers, and Turkey’s ambassador to Somalia.
The Somali government has been actively working to rebuild and modernize its navy and coast guard, aiming to protect the country’s long coastline from piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime threats. Officials said the arrival of the Turkish warships will support joint training exercises, operational coordination, and logistical assistance for Somali forces. This deployment highlights the growing security partnership between Somalia and Turkey, which has expanded over the past decade.
Turkey has played a significant role in rebuilding Somalia’s security institutions. The country operates its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu, where Turkish instructors train Somali troops. Over the years, Turkey has steadily increased its defense cooperation with Somalia, providing military support, equipment, and expertise.
This naval cooperation is taking place alongside expanding energy partnerships between the two countries. Turkey’s Energy Minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, announced last month that the Turkish drilling vessel, Cagri Bey, is expected to arrive in Somalia soon to begin Turkey’s first deepwater exploration project abroad. The operation will target offshore areas in Somali waters, though the size of potential reserves and investment has not been disclosed.
In 2024, Turkey and Somalia signed an energy exploration agreement as part of Ankara’s broader plan to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on imports. To protect these investments, Turkey has deployed modern naval assets to Somali waters and is supporting additional projects, including the development of a satellite center, under a growing defense and security framework.
Turkish support extends beyond the sea. Last month, three Turkish F-16 fighter jets were delivered to Mogadishu, with six more expected. These aircraft are part of a broader effort by Turkey and its allies to assist Somalia in strengthening national defense and improving military operations, particularly against al-Shabab insurgents.
Overall, the Turkish naval visit represents a deepening partnership between the two countries in both defense and energy sectors. Somalia gains training, technology, and security support, while Turkey expands its strategic presence in the Horn of Africa. Officials on both sides emphasized that this cooperation is designed to enhance stability in Somali waters, protect the country’s resources, and boost national defense capabilities.