Turkey has deployed much-awaited Bayraktar Akinci drones to Somalia on Tuesday. The deployment of Bayraktar Akinci Unmanned Combat aerial vehicles (UCAVS), reached Somalia as part of Turkey assistance to Somalia. Turkey’s deployment of advanced Bayaktar Akinci drones to Mogadishu marks a significant step in bolstering the country’s counter-terrorism efforts. The drones known for their advanced surveillance and combat capabilities are expected to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Somali Forces in their fight against the terrorist group of Al-Shabab. Somalia’s outgoing Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, lauded the initiative, describing it as an unprecedented military aid, and highlighting Turkey’s strong commitment to supporting Somalia in its efforts to combat terrorism.
The move not only strengthens the military partnership between Turkey and Somalia but also underscores Turkey’s growing role in regional security and stability. The deployment of the drones is likely to improve intelligence-gathering. precision strikes, and overall operational coordination in anti-terror missions which are critical for Somalia’s long term security and stability. This development reflects the deepening ties between the two nations, with Turkey being one of Somalia’s key international allies in recent years
