Some analysts believe that Turkey’s extensive military, trade, and educational initiatives in Africa pose challenges to U.S. objectives, as the Turkish government seems to benefit from various conflicts across the continent. Experts point out that Turkey’s focus on military sales appears primarily driven by profit, often ignoring the impacts these arms sales have on regional power dynamics, particularly in areas prone to jihadism like the Sahel.
Recent reports indicate that Turkish firms have sold military drones to both factions involved in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. Gönur Tolu, a Turkish analyst, mentioned during a seminar in Washington that Turkey is utilizing conflicts in Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia to enhance its military, diplomatic, and economic roles in Africa. He stressed that Turkey has become one of Africa’s leading arms suppliers, implying that any further instability in the region could, in fact, strengthen Turkey’s influence.
In October, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan noted that trade between Turkey and Africa increased significantly, from $5.4 billion in 2003 to an impressive $41 billion in 2024. At an economic forum in Istanbul, he highlighted that Turkish Airlines is key in this endeavor, providing flights to 64 destinations across Africa.
Erdoğan remarked that over the last two decades, Turkey’s relationship with Africa has grown profoundly in various aspects. Meanwhile, Sudan’s drone transactions with rival factions exacerbate the ongoing conflict and stand in stark contrast to U.S. policies, which aim to curtail external military support to nations fueling violence.
Mariam Wahaba, a research analyst, explained that Turkish drones are often touted as cheaper and less controversial options compared to U.S. or European alternatives, making their presence prevalent in African conflict zones. The fact that Turkish entities are reportedly supplying drones to both the Sudanese military and opposing militias illustrates a transactional approach that prioritizes influence over stability and civilian protection.
A report stated that a $120 million contract involving the sale of TB2 drones and related technology to Sudan’s military follows U.S. sanctions preventing such arms dealings. Allegations also mention Turkish drones being sent to the Sudanese paramilitary group RSF, though the companies have denied these claims. Inquiries to the Turkish government have so far gone unanswered.
The TB2 drones boast a significantly lower cost compared to U.S. options, making them attractive to various governments and militias. A recent report noted the entire TB2 systems package typically ranges from $5 million to $15 million, depending on contractual specifics, while operating costs are considerably low.
Some analysts believe Turkey’s actions in Africa can be viewed as a revival of its historical ties reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire, which may have implications for U.S. interests. Wahaba expressed concern that Turkey’s support for Islamist movements and its neo-Ottoman foreign policy could undermine U.S. efforts to maintain stability in the region.
According to experts, Turkey’s arms dealings should not be dismissed as mere commercial transactions but rather understood as a strategic move to extend political and military influence throughout Africa, a region increasingly contested among global powers. The number of Turkish embassies in Africa has surged from 12 in 2002 to 44 today, underscoring Turkey’s commitment to expanding its presence. Wahaba pointed out that the rapid growth of Turkish Airlines’ flights to African capitals illustrates Turkey’s intent to blend soft power with its overall diplomatic goals, which pose significant challenges to U.S. priorities in the region.
