By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 28 January 2026 – Three Turkish F-16 fighter jets landed in Mogadishu on Wednesday, marking an expansion of Ankara’s support in Somalia’s fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab.
The F-16s, along with two additional helicopters, are intended to support ongoing military operations against Al-Shabaab across southern and central Somalia, Somali government officials told Dawan Africa.
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The deployment follows Ankara’s direct involvement this week in combat against Al-Shabaab near a strategic site earmarked for a future satellite launch facility.
Ankara maintains broader cooperation with Somalia, including military training, logistical support, and assistance to Somali forces.
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