Istanbul, Türkiye — Somali Navy Commander General Abduwahab Abdullahi Omar participated in the 2025 International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) held in Istanbul, where he met with senior officials from leading Turkish defense firm Aselsan. The high-level engagement focused on deepening defense cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye, particularly in the field of maritime security and naval modernization.
During the meeting, Gen. Abduwahab and Aselsan representatives discussed a comprehensive framework to enhance Somalia’s naval capabilities. Key areas included training, equipment procurement, surveillance systems, and coastal defense strategies aimed at protecting Somalia’s extensive coastline from piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime threats.
The discussions form part of a broader security partnership between Somalia and Türkiye, which has steadily expanded in recent years. Türkiye has played a pivotal role in training Somali security forces and supporting national institutions. Strengthening the Somali Navy is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring stability and safeguarding economic resources in the Horn of Africa.
Speaking after the meeting, Gen. Abduwahab emphasized the importance of sustainable partnerships in rebuilding Somalia’s naval forces.
“This engagement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to restore Somalia’s maritime sovereignty. We value Türkiye’s continued support and the technological expertise that firms like Aselsan bring to our national defense agenda,” Gen. Abduwahab said.
IDEF 2025, one of the world’s leading defense exhibitions, brought together military leaders, defense industry experts, and policymakers from across the globe. Somalia’s active participation underscores its commitment to international collaboration and capacity building in the security sector.