# Turkey provides additional COBRAs to Gambia

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2025/01/turkey-provides-additional-cobras-to-gambia/
- Published: 2025-01-16T09:38:52+01:00
- Author: Ekene Lionel, Kazim Abdul and Military Africa

Turkey has donated 17 COBRA armored vehicles to the Gambian Armed Forces, worth 
around US$4 million, equivalent to about 280 million dalasis to the Gambia Armed
Forces (GAF) to ensure its participation in UN missions.

Enhancing their operational capabilities, this donation, made under the Military
Financial Cooperation Agreement, was officially handed over on January 14, 2025.
The Turkish ambassador emphasized that these vehicles are intended for protection
rather than offensive purposes, supporting Gambia’s participation in UN peacekeeping
missions.

![](https://www.military.africa/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/c59fcb94e6239b16228a4aa492c6296d_1.
jpg)

![](https://www.military.africa/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250115_151123-1024x670.
jpg)

A formal handover ceremony took place at the Gambian Presidential Palace in Banjul,
attended by Gambian President Adama Barrow, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Gambia Fahri
Türker Oba, and Major General Fethi Oltulu, head of the Logistics Division of the
Turkish Armed Forces.

The delivery highlights the enduring cooperation between Türkiye and Gambia, which
began in 1990 under the Military and Financial Cooperation Agreement. Türkiye has
provided extensive support over the years, including advanced training, uniforms,
and critical military equipment, contributing significantly to Gambia’s defense 
capabilities.

For over three decades, Türkiye’s support has been integral to the modernization
and professionalization of Gambia’s military forces. Hundreds of Gambian soldiers
have trained at Turkish military academies, mastering skills such as intelligence
gathering, internal security, logistics management, and advanced infantry tactics.

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Türkiye has also provided crucial resources, including mine detectors, high-frequency
radios, and logistical equipment, enabling the Gambian Armed Forces to respond effectively
to domestic and regional security challenges.

During the handover ceremony, Major General Fethi Oltulu emphasized the significance
of this partnership. “Türkiye’s relationship with Gambia extends beyond military
support; it is a bond built on shared values, trust, and a commitment to regional
stability,” he stated.

In September 2023, the first batch of Cobra armoured vehicles were [delivered](https://www.military.africa/2023/09/turkey-donates-military-hardware-strengthening-bilateral-ties-with-gambia/)
to The Gambia from Turkey. The delivery included various “non-lethal military items”
were presented. These items included high-frequency (HF) radios, mine detectors,
uniforms, winter jackets, raincoats, combat boots, and more.

Before that, in 2022, Gambia [received](https://www.military.africa/2022/11/turkey-donates-katmerciler-hizir-mrap-to-gambia/)
two Katmerciler Hizir armored vehicles from Turkey last year, hinting at a larger
contract for an [additional 20 vehicles](https://www.military.africa/2022/06/gambia-orders-hizir-armoured-vehicles-from-katmerciler/)
in the future.

The COBRA armored vehicles are expected to enhance Gambia’s operational capabilities,
particularly in internal security, counter-terrorism, and peacekeeping missions.
Known for their exceptional mobility and adaptability, these vehicles are designed
to operate effectively in challenging terrains and can be deployed in rapid response
scenarios.

These vehicles were earlier deployed in the “Kansala 2024” military exercises held
in Kanilai, where Gambian forces showcased their capabilities in simulated operations
such as patrols and tactical raids.

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The COBRA armored vehicle, developed by OTOKAR, is recognized for its exceptional
performance in diverse operational environments. Equipped with an independent suspension
system, continuous four-wheel drive, and automatic transmission, it offers unparalleled
mobility. Its design prioritizes crew safety, incorporating advanced protection 
against mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

With a modular structure, the COBRA can be adapted for various roles, including 
personnel transport, reconnaissance, command and control, and even medical evacuation.
Its amphibious capability, enabled by a hydraulic propulsion system, ensures functionality
in challenging terrains and water crossings. These features make the COBRA a cost-
effective and highly versatile platform for modern military forces.

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