Somalia has taken a crucial step in strengthening its fight against the Al-Shabaab terrorist organization by acquiring the Bayraktar Akıncı Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) from Turkey.
This acquisition comes as the country faces a surge in attacks from the insurgent group, which has targeted Somali forces and critical infrastructure with increasing frequency.
The delivery of the Akinci UCAVs was confirmed by Somali Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, who announced via his social media channels that Somalia had received two Turkish-built drones, transported via Turkey’s A400M military airlifter.
Nur, a graduate of Ankara University and a fluent Turkish speaker, previously served as Somalia’s Minister of Defense, where he played a pivotal role in strengthening military ties with Turkey.
“A true brother is revealed in difficult times. Turkey has once again provided unprecedented aid to the Somali people, who are battling against foreign invaders,” Nur wrote, a statement that hints at broader geopolitical implications beyond just a military alliance.
The Akıncı UCAV, developed by Turkish defense company Baykar, offers a marked improvement over the Bayraktar TB2 drones already in use by Somalia’s military. With greater firepower and advanced capabilities, this drone is expected to enhance the nation’s counter-terrorism operations and support its broader goal of securing its territory.
The Turkish-operates Bayraktar TB2 has already proven its worth in Somalia, providing armed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities that have given the military an advantage against Al-Shabaab. However, the Akıncı takes these capabilities to a new level. It can stay airborne for over 24 hours, operate across a range of 6,000 kilometers, and reach altitudes of up to 30,000 feet.
Equipped with advanced communication systems and artificial intelligence, it delivers real-time situational awareness and reliable performance even in remote areas. Its ability to carry heavier munitions, such as 250 to 2,000-pound general-purpose bombs with precision guidance kits, allows Somali forces to strike more significant targets, including fortified buildings and logistics hubs used by Al-Shabaab. This increased firepower and versatility will enable larger-scale operations aimed at disrupting the group’s activities and weakening its hold on contested regions.
The decision to procure the Akıncı UCAV reflects Somalia’s urgent need to counter the escalating threat posed by Al-Shabaab, as well as its efforts to modernize its armed forces. By integrating these drones into its operations, the government aims to provide ground troops with precision strikes and continuous surveillance, gradually restoring control over areas affected by the insurgency.
This move aligns with a growing trend across Africa, where nations are increasingly turning to Turkish defense technology to address security challenges. The success of Turkish drones in conflicts like those in Libya, Ukraine, and Nagorno-Karabakh has boosted their reputation, making them a sought-after tool for countries seeking effective and affordable military solutions.
In February last year, Turkey and Somalia agreed to boost their defence and economic ties in a bid to enhance their partnership and the stability of the region. The agreement covers various aspects of cooperation, such as the fight against terrorism, military-financial assistance, and joint training and exercises.
Last year October, CEO of Turkey’s drone maker Baykar, Haluk Bayraktar, met with Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during a visit to the capital Mogadishu, months after Ankara and Mogadishu signed a new defense agreement.
The trip comes after Ankara increased the use of its Bayraktar TB2 drones in supporting Somali army operations and carrying out air strikes on Al-Shabaab-held areas.
In Somalia, the Akıncı’s deployment is anticipated to reshape the security landscape, offering a powerful means to combat a persistent and evolving threat.
Somalia is not alone in adopting the Akıncı UCAV. Other African nations, including Libya, Ethiopia, and Burkina Faso, Mali, Morocco have also incorporated this drone into their arsenals, highlighting its appeal across the continent. Turkey’s role in this development extends beyond mere equipment sales. Ankara has been a key partner in supporting Somalia’s defense and stability, contributing through military cooperation and economic initiatives.
The supply of the Akıncı is one facet of this relationship, which mirrors Turkey’s broader engagement with African countries seeking to bolster their security capabilities. As Somalia continues its struggle against Al-Shabaab, the arrival of the Akıncı drone marks a critical advancement in its efforts to protect its people and reclaim its territory.
