By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Serbia is providing advanced military training to Somalia’s special forces, including instruction on the operation of main battle tanks and unmanned aerial vehicles, as Mogadishu moves to modernize its armed forces, officials familiar with the matter said.
According to senior security officials, Somalia is expected to receive 17 M-84 AC3 main battle tanks along with drone systems, spare parts, weapons and ammunition under a defense cooperation arrangement between the two countries. The M-84 AC3 is an upgraded version of the Yugoslav-designed M-84 tank, featuring improved fire-control systems, enhanced armor protection and updated battlefield electronics.
The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, said the agreement includes both direct purchases and equipment supplied under a loan framework. They did not disclose the total financial value of the deal or the repayment terms.
Serbian instructors are currently training Somali special forces in the use and maintenance of the tanks, as well as in drone operations, surveillance coordination and tactical deployment, the officials said. The drones are expected to strengthen reconnaissance, intelligence-gathering and battlefield monitoring capabilities.
Over the past three and a half years, Serbia has also overseen the training of Somalia’s elite presidential guard unit, according to officials. Hundreds of soldiers assigned to presidential protection duties have graduated from specialized programs focused on urban security, counterterrorism tactics, close protection and rapid response operations, they said.
The deepening military ties come as Somalia seeks to rebuild and professionalize its armed forces after decades of conflict and institutional collapse. The government has prioritized strengthening elite units and acquiring modern equipment to support ongoing security operations against extremist groups and to improve territorial control.
Security analysts say the introduction of heavy armored units and drone technology represents a significant shift for Somalia’s military capabilities, which have historically relied on light infantry forces and external support.
Neither the Somali nor Serbian governments have publicly released detailed statements outlining the full scope of the cooperation, delivery timelines or oversight mechanisms related to the transfer of equipment.
Somalia has in recent years expanded defense partnerships with several countries as it works to enhance training, logistics and operational readiness amid continuing security challenges.
