Turkey is planning to deploy frigates to Somali waters to protect a seismic exploration ship that will be conducting energy surveys in the region.
This decision follows a deal between Turkey and Somalia, granting Ankara the right to explore and drill in Somalia’s exclusive economic zone.
The Turkish vessel, Oruc Reis, will carry out 3D seismic studies in Somali waters starting in October, with Turkish naval forces providing protection against potential threats, including piracy and land-based attacks.
This move is part of broader cooperation between the two nations, which includes Turkish military support to help strengthen Somalia’s maritime defense.
The exploration is expected to uncover oil reserves, and if successful, Turkey and Somalia will share the resources under a production-sharing agreement.
However, this operation has drawn objections from Somaliland, which opposes Turkish naval deployments in its claimed maritime zones.