A recent report by Nordic Monitor, a Swedish research website, has revealed that Turkey has stationed at least 3,000 personnel in Libya.
This move highlights Ankara’s efforts to cement its influence in the North African nation through a blend of military presence and economic ambitions.
Since 2019, Turkish forces have been actively involved in Libya, operating as part of a long-term strategy to expand Ankara’s geopolitical influence. Turkish military personnel are stationed in critical locations such as the Tajoura Land Training and Exercise Center, the Khoms Special Forces Center, and airbases like Al-Watiya, Misrata, and Mitiga.
According to the report, the Turkish contingent in Libya includes 2,200 armed forces personnel, 800 private contractors from the Turkish security firm SADAT, and 50 intelligence agents.
These forces play a central role in training troops loyal to the Government of National Unity (GNU) in Tripoli and in supplying military equipment, such as Bayraktar TB2 drones, T-155 Fırtına howitzers, and Hawk air defense systems.
Turkey’s influence extends to a permanent naval presence off Libya’s coast, with two warships patrolling near Tripoli. Additionally, Turkish naval forces operate out of key ports, including Abu Sitta and Sidi Bilal, further strengthening their strategic foothold.
The report also highlights Turkey’s extensive logistical operations. Over 280 military cargo flights, utilizing C-130 and A400 transport aircraft, have bypassed Greek airspace to deliver supplies to Libyan bases.
Turkey’s activities in Libya are not confined to military operations. Ankara has paired its military support with ambitious economic initiatives, including infrastructure projects, to solidify its influence. The 2019 maritime agreement between Turkey and the GNU in Tripoli, delineating exclusive economic zones in the Mediterranean, has further boosted Ankara’s stake in Libya’s future.
This dual approach underscores Turkey’s broader goal of leveraging Libya as a key hub for expanding its influence across North Africa and the Mediterranean.
While Turkey’s presence has strengthened its allies in Tripoli, it has drawn significant criticism both domestically within Libya and internationally. Rival Libyan factions, such as those led by General Khalifa Haftar, view Turkey’s actions as interference.
International actors have also expressed concerns over the potential for prolonged instability, as Ankara’s military footprint may exacerbate divisions in a nation striving for unity and peace.
Turkey’s intervention in Libya became prominent after its controversial 2019 Memorandum of Understanding with the GNU. This agreement not only set maritime boundaries but also paved the way for direct military involvement, which proved crucial in halting General Haftar’s 2019-2020 offensive against Tripoli. Since then, Ankara has maintained and expanded its role in Libya, positioning itself as a key stakeholder in the country’s future.
