Istanbul, Türkiye — Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, is actively participating in the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025), one of the world’s premier exhibitions for defence technologies, currently underway in Istanbul.
Fiqi’s presence at the event underscores Somalia’s growing interest in modernizing its defence capabilities through international partnerships and technological cooperation. On Wednesday, he toured the exhibition floor and held meetings with executives of several prominent Turkish defence manufacturers, including Machinery and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE), İpek Savunma, and BMC.
At MKE, a state-owned enterprise known for its production of artillery systems, ammunition, and small arms, the minister explored various military-grade innovations and discussed opportunities for future collaboration in defence procurement and knowledge transfer. His next stop was İpek Savunma, a company specializing in tactical equipment and body armor solutions, where the minister reviewed advanced personal protection systems relevant to infantry and special operations forces.
Fiqi also visited BMC, a major Turkish manufacturer of armored vehicles and tactical trucks. The discussions reportedly focused on the potential acquisition of multi-purpose military vehicles suitable for Somalia’s security environment, as well as long-term maintenance and support partnerships.
IDEF 2025 has attracted delegations from over 80 countries, providing a strategic platform for defence cooperation and investment. Somalia’s participation reflects its broader efforts to strengthen its national security institutions and improve the operational readiness of its armed forces amid ongoing internal and regional security challenges.
Fiqi is expected to hold further bilateral talks with Turkish defence officials and explore partnerships that align with Somalia’s Defence Development Plan.