Istanbul, Türkiye – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paid a high-level visit to Baykar’s Özdemir Bayraktar National Technology Center in Istanbul on Thursday, as part of growing Somalia–Türkiye defense cooperation. The visit highlighted Somalia’s interest in enhancing its national security through advanced drone technology, particularly the Akinci and Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Baykar, Türkiye’s leading drone manufacturer, showcased its cutting-edge UAV systems to the Somali delegation. The President toured the facility, held discussions with senior engineers, and was briefed on the capabilities of the Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci combat drones—systems that have become prominent tools in modern warfare and counterterrorism operations.
“Strengthening our defense capacity is key to ensuring the safety of our people and defeating terrorism. This partnership with Türkiye is built on trust, and this visit represents a major step toward building a modern, self-reliant Somali defense force,” President Mohamud stated during the visit.
The visit is part of a broader strategic engagement between Somalia and Türkiye, spanning military training, infrastructure, health, and economic development. Turkish drones have proven effective in asymmetric warfare, and Somali authorities are keen to leverage such capabilities in the fight against Al-Shabaab and other militant threats.
Baykar’s CTO, Selçuk Bayraktar, welcomed the Somali president and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s sovereignty and stability. The two sides discussed future cooperation, including potential drone sales, joint training programs, and technology transfer initiatives.
This marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s effort to modernize its military and signals deepening defense ties between the two nations. Türkiye has been one of Somalia’s most active international partners since 2011, playing a vital role in humanitarian assistance, development, and security sector reform.
The visit comes amid increased security threats in Somalia, where the government has launched intensified operations to dismantle terrorist strongholds. UAVs like the Bayraktar TB2 are expected to give Somali forces a tactical edge in surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes.
President Mohamud’s visit underscores a shared vision between Somalia and Türkiye: building resilient institutions, enhancing regional security, and fostering long-term strategic cooperation.