Media: Turkish F-16s conduct low-altitude flights over Somalia Video

Turkish F-16 fighter jets were observed flying at low altitude over Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, on February 3, in a deployment that reflects rising regional tensions in the Horn of Africa.

 Yeni Şafak shares the footage of the jet. 

The move comes as Israel has stepped up efforts to establish a military presence in the breakaway region of Somaliland and became the first country to formally recognise the autonomous region that broke away from Somalia decades ago—a development Ankara has criticised as a direct interference in Somalia’s internal affairs and a threat to regional stability.

Türkiye has strongly condemned Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland’s independence, calling it an “illegal and destabilising act” and highlighting what Ankara describes as an escalating contest for influence in the region.

According to Middle East Eye, the first Turkish F-16s arrived in Mogadishu on January 28, accompanied by two military helicopters. Turkish officials confirmed that the aircraft will be operated by Turkish crews stationed in Somalia rather than by Somali forces, citing the need to protect “our own security.”

By Sabina Mammadli