The Turkish arms industry is booming, with many African countries among its customers. This growth is due in part to Turkey's desire to become self-sufficient in defense, a goal born of embargoes imposed by its
European and American allies . Faced with major security challenges, military regimes in the Sahel are intensifying their use of drones to strengthen their defense capabilities. Turkey, through its company Baykar, has established itself as a strategic military partner in the region. Its drones, notably the
Bayraktar TB2 and the
Bayraktar Akinci , are not only combat tools. They are part of a diplomacy of influence aimed at strengthening ties with Sahelian military regimes. Capable of both targeted strikes and real-time surveillance, these drones offer a tailored response to the asymmetric threats posed by non-state armed groups.
The sale of drones is part of Turkey's broader strategy to become a major player in the global defense industry. The Sahel countries represent a market for these exports. Through these technological means, Turkey is positioning itself as an alternative to traditional powers, notably France, whose
presence in the region is hotly contested. This approach is not limited to the simple sale of equipment; it also encompasses military training, notably through
the private military company SADAT , in a regional context marked by the use of private military companies, as well as technical support and long-term strategic partnerships. This model strengthens Turkey's presence in Africa while supporting the development of its defense industry and its diplomatic outreach.
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