Türkiye has reaffirmed its commitment to Somalia’s security by deploying the Akıncı Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) to support ongoing operations against Al-Shabab.
The Akıncı, a cutting-edge combat drone developed by Türkiye’s Bayraktar Technologies, is among the most advanced in the world, boasting superior attack, surveillance, and covert intelligence-gathering capabilities.
Launched in 2017 and fully developed by 2019, the Akıncı can carry a payload of up to 1,350 kilograms, surpassing most other UCAVs. It reaches altitudes of 40,000 feet, achieves speeds of up to 360 km/h, and can operate for an impressive 24 hours nonstop.
Equipped with state-of-the-art intelligence and communication systems, the Akıncı features an Electronic Warfare System (ECM) designed to neutralize enemy electronic equipment. Additionally, its advanced imaging system ensures high-precision visuals even in poor visibility conditions.
The Akıncı has already proven its effectiveness in modern warfare, including combat, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes against strategic targets. It has been deployed in major conflicts, notably in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, where it played a decisive role in Azerbaijan’s victory over Armenia. The Turkish military has also utilized the Akıncı in counterterrorism operations against militant groups in Syria and the PKK in Türkiye.
The deployment of the Akıncı drone to Somalia comes at a critical time, as Al-Shabab intensifies its attacks in the Middle and lower Shabelle regions, bordering the capital Mogadishu. The drone is expected to significantly weaken Al-Shabab’s operational capabilities, bolstering Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts.