Türkiye Sends Tanks to Somalia

Türkiye has transferred a new batch of M48 and M60 Patton main battle tanks to Somalia, marking another step in deepening bilateral defense ties.

Tanks Offloaded at Mogadishu Port

According to available footage and defense sources, the tanks were transported aboard the Turkish Navy landing ship TCG Sancaktar and offloaded at the port of Mogadishu.

Images circulating online show the armored vehicles being moved from the port area under escort, later proceeding through the city in organized convoy formation.

F-16 Fighter Jets Deployed in January

In late January 2026, reports confirmed that Turkish F-16 fighter jets landed at Aden Adde International Airport.

The deployment marked Türkiye’s first forward stationing of manned combat aircraft in Somalia. The jets are believed to support counter-terrorism operations against Al-Shabaab and to enhance deterrence and rapid-response capabilities.

Prior to the jet deployment, Türkiye delivered three T129 ATAK attack helicopters to Somalia during 2024 and 2025 under an expanded defense cooperation agreement. Somali pilots reportedly completed training programs ahead of the transfer.

The helicopters significantly strengthened Somalia’s close air support and counter-insurgency capacity.

Armored Vehicles and Equipment Since 2020

Türkiye’s military assistance began intensifying in 2020, when Ankara donated Kirpi armored personnel carriers and military transport vehicles to the Somali National Army.

Additional shipments between 2021 and 2025 included MRAP vehicles, logistical trucks, ammunition, heavy weapons systems and command-and-control equipment.

A Multi-Phase Defense Expansion

From armored vehicle donations in 2020 to helicopter transfers in 2024–2025, and finally tank and fighter jet deployments in 2026, Türkiye’s military engagement with Somalia has evolved in structured phases.

The timeline reflects a deliberate expansion from mobility and training support to advanced air power and heavy armor positioning Türkiye as one of Somalia’s most significant long-term defense partners.