MOGADISHU — Somalia is stepping up efforts to rebuild its air force capacity through expanded technical and pilot training programs, with personnel currently undergoing specialized instruction in Pakistan as part of a broader defence modernization plan.
Officials say a total of 58 Somali Air Force personnel are receiving advanced aviation training abroad, focusing on operational procedures, flight systems, and mission readiness. The trainees are expected to form part of a new generation of air force staff tasked with supporting national security operations once they return home.
In a parallel program, 20 Somali aviation engineers are being trained on the JF-17 multirole fighter aircraft, covering aircraft systems, avionics, maintenance protocols, and technical troubleshooting. The training includes both theoretical instruction and hands-on technical exposure designed to build long-term maintenance capacity within Somalia’s air force structure.
Defence officials say the engineering program is particularly important for reducing reliance on foreign technical support, allowing Somalia to gradually develop in-country expertise for servicing and sustaining modern military aircraft.
The initiative is part of wider efforts to rebuild Somalia’s security institutions after decades of conflict, with the government prioritizing the restoration of air capability alongside army and police reforms.
Authorities have indicated that, in the next phase of the program, Somalia plans to begin conducting more basic military and aviation training domestically as infrastructure and training facilities are upgraded.
Security analysts say rebuilding air force capacity is a complex and long-term process that requires sustained investment in personnel, logistics, maintenance systems, and regulatory frameworks, in addition to pilot training.
Officials have not disclosed when the trainees will complete their programs or be deployed into active service, but say the collaboration marks a significant step toward restoring Somalia’s air defence capabilities and strengthening national sovereignty in the security sector.
