ANKARA — Turkey’s Ministry of National Defense on Thursday categorically rejected recent reports suggesting that Russian-made S-400 air defense systems had been deployed to Somalia.
According to an official statement, the ministry confirmed there are absolutely no intentions to deploy the advanced S-400 missile systems beyond Turkey’s sovereign borders. Defense officials noted that the missile batteries remain fully under Turkish jurisdiction and are actively prepared for use exclusively by the nation’s military to protect its own airspace.
Dismissing Baseless Allegations
Authorities in Ankara strongly advised the public and international media to disregard what they characterized as “repetitive, baseless allegations.” The ministry asserted that these strategic defense systems are maintained strictly for Turkey’s internal security needs and serve no operational purpose in being deployed to foreign allied nations, including Somalia.
Ongoing Security Cooperation in the Horn
While firmly dismissing the S-400 rumors, the defense ministry reiterated that the deep, strategic defense collaboration between Turkey and Somalia continues unabated under previously established bilateral accords.
This enduring cooperation concentrates heavily on training Somali national forces, enhancing their operational battlefield capabilities, and coordinating vital counter-terrorism efforts. Furthermore, the partnership is increasingly focused on safeguarding Somalia’s vast economic resources and strategic maritime assets, which aligns with the recent deployment of Turkish naval and air assets to Mogadishu.
Over recent years, Turkey has massively increased its footprint in Somalia’s security and defense domains. From operating its largest overseas military academy to deploying specialized troops to support major security missions, Ankara remains a cornerstone ally in developing Somalia’s sovereign military capabilities and backing broader stability initiatives throughout the Horn of Africa.
