Turkish Offshore Drilling Vessel “Çağrı Bey” Departs for Somalia as Ankara Steps Up Energy and Security Cooperation

Written by Abdiasis Farah Said

Ankara / Mogadishu — February 14, 2026The Turkish offshore drilling vessel Çağrı Bey left a southern Turkish port yesterday, beginning a voyage to Somalia’s offshore basins where it is scheduled to start oil exploration operations under a bilateral energy agreement.The red-hulled industrial ship, marked with the Turkish national emblem, was seen departing with officials from the Turkish Ministry of Energy and industry partners in attendance. Turkish authorities said the mission is part of an accord signed last year granting Turkish firms exploration rights in strategic blocks off the Somali coast.“Today marks an important step in strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between our two nations,” said a spokesperson for the Turkish Energy Ministry. “We aim for responsible and productive exploration that could benefit the Somali people.”Military Support Arrives in MogadishuThe announcement comes days after the arrival of heavy Turkish military equipment in Somalia. According to Somali government statements, Ankara has delivered vehicles, engineering units, and logistical support to assist the Somali Armed Forces. Officials in Mogadishu say the equipment is intended to help bolster security, support counter-insurgency efforts, and strengthen regional stability.A representative from Somalia’s Ministry of Defence said the deliveries reflect “deepening partnership and shared commitment to peace and progress,” adding that Somali forces will use the equipment to enhance defense capabilities across key regions.Somali Response and Regional ImpactSomali government officials have welcomed both the drilling mission and security cooperation, highlighting the potential benefits for national development, job creation, and infrastructure. “We are committed to transparent and sustainable resource management alongside fortified security,” said a senior Ministry of Petroleum official.Industry analysts, while noting that offshore exploration does not guarantee commercial oil discoveries, say successful exploration could attract further investment to the Horn of Africa. Meanwhile, regional observers are watching closely as Turkey broadens its presence in both economic and security sectors.The Çağrı Bey is expected to reach Somali waters within the coming days and begin preparatory work ahead of drilling. In parallel, Turkish and Somali defense officials have begun coordinating joint training exercises and logistics support as part of recent military cooperation agreements.Both governments emphasize that all activities — from drilling to defense support — will be carried out in accordance with international regulations, with attention to safety and environmental protection.