By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 30 January 2026 Turkey’s support for Somalia has reached new levels following significant developments that have caught global attention. Turkey has deployed F-16 fighter jets to Somalia, marking a strong display of military support. Over 10 Turkish cargo planes have landed in Mogadishu this week.
The Somali Cabinet has approved the appointment of the new army commander, General Ibrahim Mohamed Mahamud, a graduate of a Turkish military academy, which signifies the progress in defence relations between the two countries.
Turkey’s National Security Council has also officially prioritized Somalia’s territorial integrity, a historic decision reflecting Turkey’s defence of Somalia’s sovereignty.
More from Somalia
On January 28th, dozens of Turkish soldiers, equipped with modern weapons, for the first time fought alongside Somali forces against Al Shabaab militants in the Jabad Godane area of the Warshiiq district, near the location where the Turkey plans to establish a satellite control center.
Additionally, Turkey maintains its largest military base outside its borders in Somalia, where Somali troops are trained and integrated into the Somali National Army.
The relationship between Somalia and Turkey seems to be strengthening, with both countries working together in security, defence, trade, and regional politics.
