Somalia boosts security with Turkish T129 ATAK helicopters
Somalia has received Turkish T129 ATAK helicopters to enhance its capabilities in combating threats from various armed groups.
Somalia has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its armed forces by acquiring T129 ATAK attack helicopters from Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). According to "Army Recognition," this initiative aims to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Somali Air Force, addressing ongoing security threats, particularly from the Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen group, affiliated with Al-Qaeda.
The federal authorities of the Republic of Somalia are currently investing in more effective combat measures to secure their territory and improve operations against rebel and terrorist groups. This move is another chapter in Turkey's involvement in the region, following the establishment of a military base in Mogadishu and the supply of Akinci drones.
Turkish aircraft with Italian origins
The T129 ATAK is a two-seat attack helicopter designed for air support, reconnaissance, and precision strikes, evolving from the Italian A129 Mangusta.
The modifications include upgraded avionics, fuselage, and rotors, enhancing maneuverability and operational capabilities under challenging conditions. The helicopter is capable of operating both day and night, featuring a primary armament of a 20 mm three-barrel cannon with 500 rounds, and additional weapons mounted on four pylons with a load capacity of 2,600 pounds.
Guided armaments of Turkish production
Available options include UMTAS anti-tank guided missiles and laser-guided Cirit rockets with a caliber of 70 mm, conceptually similar to APKWS. Somalia will likely use the latter, as they are sufficient for targeting various armed vehicles based on pickups.
