In late January 2026, the Turkish Air Force forward-deployed at least three F‑16 fighter jets to Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia. Alongside two military helicopters, this deployment marks a significant escalation in Turkey’s military presence in the Horn of Africa.
According to multiple sources, the Turkish jets arrived on 28 January and have already been observed flying over Mogadishu. This is the first known deployment of Turkish manned combat aircraft to Somalia, complementing Ankara’s existing footprint, which includes attack helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and military advisors supporting the Somali government.
The move is part of Turkey’s support for Somali authorities in their ongoing fight against the al‑Shabaab insurgency. While no airstrikes have been officially reported, the presence of F‑16s underscores Turkey’s intent to maintain rapid-reaction strike capabilities in the region. Preparations for the deployment reportedly included months of planning, including hangar construction and expansion of airport infrastructure to sustain the fighters.
This operation demonstrates Turkey’s growing interest in projecting air power beyond its immediate borders, reinforcing its strategic footprint in Africa. Analysts suggest the deployment serves multiple purposes: deterring extremist groups, supporting a regional partner, and signaling Ankara’s ability to operate advanced combat aircraft far from its own territory.
With F‑16s now based in Mogadishu, Turkey establishes a permanent forward posture that could shape the military and geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa for years to come.
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