Turkey Deploys F-16 Jets to Expand Military Footprint in Somalia  

Mogadishu, Somalia – Turkish F-16 fighter jets were spotted over Mogadishu on Wednesday morning conducting test flights, according to sources close to the matter.

Turkey maintains a major military base on the outskirts of Mogadishu, which was opened in 2017. The base is estimated to have cost nearly $100 million and is used for training Somali forces as well as supporting security operations in the country.

Sources said Turkey has deployed at least three fighter jets to Somalia, which arrived last Wednesday as part of Ankara’s expanded military support to the country. The test flights are reportedly intended to assess the aircrafts’ readiness and capabilities for future operations, while also strengthening Somalia’s defense capacity.

The reason for the jets’ deployment has not been officially confirmed, but it coincides with Turkey sending oil exploration vessels to Somali waters, which are expected to be accompanied by security support.

Turkey’s military assistance has also contributed to training Somali forces and bolstering security in Mogadishu and across the country.

Garowe Online