Turkey has donated 17 COBRA armored vehicles to the Gambian Armed Forces, worth around US$4 million, equivalent to about 280 million dalasis to the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) to ensure its participation in UN missions.
Enhancing their operational capabilities, this donation, made under the Military Financial Cooperation Agreement, was officially handed over on January 14, 2025. The Turkish ambassador emphasized that these vehicles are intended for protection rather than offensive purposes, supporting Gambia’s participation in UN peacekeeping missions.
A formal handover ceremony took place at the Gambian Presidential Palace in Banjul, attended by Gambian President Adama Barrow, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Gambia Fahri Türker Oba, and Major General Fethi Oltulu, head of the Logistics Division of the Turkish Armed Forces.
The delivery highlights the enduring cooperation between Türkiye and Gambia, which began in 1990 under the Military and Financial Cooperation Agreement. Türkiye has provided extensive support over the years, including advanced training, uniforms, and critical military equipment, contributing significantly to Gambia’s defense capabilities.
For over three decades, Türkiye’s support has been integral to the modernization and professionalization of Gambia’s military forces. Hundreds of Gambian soldiers have trained at Turkish military academies, mastering skills such as intelligence gathering, internal security, logistics management, and advanced infantry tactics.
Türkiye has also provided crucial resources, including mine detectors, high-frequency radios, and logistical equipment, enabling the Gambian Armed Forces to respond effectively to domestic and regional security challenges.
During the handover ceremony, Major General Fethi Oltulu emphasized the significance of this partnership. “Türkiye’s relationship with Gambia extends beyond military support; it is a bond built on shared values, trust, and a commitment to regional stability,” he stated.
In September 2023, the first batch of Cobra armoured vehicles were delivered to The Gambia from Turkey. The delivery included various “non-lethal military items” were presented. These items included high-frequency (HF) radios, mine detectors, uniforms, winter jackets, raincoats, combat boots, and more.
Before that, in 2022, Gambia received two Katmerciler Hizir armored vehicles from Turkey last year, hinting at a larger contract for an additional 20 vehicles in the future.
The COBRA armored vehicles are expected to enhance Gambia’s operational capabilities, particularly in internal security, counter-terrorism, and peacekeeping missions. Known for their exceptional mobility and adaptability, these vehicles are designed to operate effectively in challenging terrains and can be deployed in rapid response scenarios.
These vehicles were earlier deployed in the “Kansala 2024” military exercises held in Kanilai, where Gambian forces showcased their capabilities in simulated operations such as patrols and tactical raids.
The COBRA armored vehicle, developed by OTOKAR, is recognized for its exceptional performance in diverse operational environments. Equipped with an independent suspension system, continuous four-wheel drive, and automatic transmission, it offers unparalleled mobility. Its design prioritizes crew safety, incorporating advanced protection against mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
With a modular structure, the COBRA can be adapted for various roles, including personnel transport, reconnaissance, command and control, and even medical evacuation. Its amphibious capability, enabled by a hydraulic propulsion system, ensures functionality in challenging terrains and water crossings. These features make the COBRA a cost-effective and highly versatile platform for modern military forces.
