Strengthening Somalia-Türkiye Defense Ties
Türkiye is reportedly preparing to send military advisors from the private defense company SADAT to Somalia, following an official request from Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. According to sources cited by the think tank “Horn Review,” the deployment aims to assist Somali forces in countering Al-Shabaab in the Middle and Lower Shabelle regions. Caasimadda Online a media platform which is known for being close to Somali government also reports this news.
WAJ recently reported, citing Somali officials, that President Mohamud formally requested direct military intervention from Türkiye during his last meeting with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. In response, Türkiye is now expected to send SADAT military advisors to assess the battlefield situation before deploying around 3,000 personnel to the frontlines.
SADAT’s Role and Strategic Mission
SADAT, a Turkish private military contractor, specializes in defense consultancy, military training, and operational support. Unlike Russia’s Wagner Group, SADAT was established to support Muslim nations in defense strategies, particularly those within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The company has previously played roles in Libya, Azerbaijan, and Sudan, assisting governments aligned with Türkiye’s foreign policy objectives.
In Somalia, SADAT’s mission will begin with evaluating the security landscape before deploying forces to secure strategic areas, provide intelligence support, and train Somali troops. Additionally, reports suggest that Türkiye may establish a missile testing facility in Middle Shabelle, further solidifying its long-term military presence in the region.
A Turning Point for Somalia’s Security
For over 30 years, Somalia has struggled with conflict, terrorism, and political instability. Türkiye has been a key ally, providing humanitarian aid, rebuilding infrastructure, and training Somali forces. If SADAT’s deployment materializes, it could represent a decisive step in Somalia’s efforts to eliminate Al-Shabaab and achieve lasting stability.
The development has reportedly drawn attention from international players, with the U.S. and the UAE viewing Türkiye’s growing military cooperation with Somalia with concern. Notably, the U.S. recently attempted to remove Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur from office, but he remains in his position, continuing his efforts to strengthen Somalia’s security forces.
As Somalia moves toward a new phase in its fight against terrorism, Türkiye’s deepening military role could be a game-changer, reinforcing Somalia’s defense capabilities and regional influence.