Libyan army cadets perform for an audience including the prime minister, the commander of the Turkish training mission, and other dignitaries at their graduation ceremony of in Tripoli, Libya, on Feb. 8, 2022. [Yousef Murad/AP]
Turkey is steadily expanding its influence in Libya through a multifaceted approach that includes a significant military presence and ambitious economic projects. The Turkish Armed Forces have been actively stationed in Libya since 2019, following the Turkey-Libya memorandum of understanding. This military footprint aligns with Ankara’s long-term strategic goals to increase its sway over the North African nation.
The Turkish military operates in various Libyan locations, including the Joint Ground Training and Exercise Center in Tajoura and the Special Forces Center in Al-Khums. Turkish forces are also present at key airbases like Al-Watiya, Misrata, and Mitiga.
In total, around 3,000 Turkish personnel are currently deployed in Libya, comprising over 2,000 TAF soldiers and approximately 800 private military contractors from the Turkish company SADAT. Additionally, up to 50 Turkish intelligence operatives (MIT) are believed to be active on Libyan soil.
Turkey’s focus is primarily on training the forces loyal to the Tripoli-based Government of National Unity (GNU), headed by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah.
Ankara’s support extends to supplying military equipment like Bayraktar TB2 drones, T-155 Firtina howitzers, and Hawk air defense systems.
Ankara maintains a permanent naval presence off the Libyan coast, with two warships patrolling the waters near Tripoli. The naval force utilizes bases such as Abu Sitta and Sidi Bilal ports. The logistical support network is bolstered by an estimated 280 cargo flights conducted by Turkish C-130 and A400 transport aircraft, circumventing Greek airspace to reach Tripoli.
Turkey’s involvement in Libya is driven by broader economic and political ambitions. Libya is Ankara’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, with annual trade volume reaching $4.5 billion. Turkish firms are actively pursuing major construction projects, including the new Tripoli airport. Moreover, a recent energy agreement aims to tap into Libya’s substantial oil reserves, estimated at 48 billion barrels.