The Turkish military is set to take control of the Abéché military base in Chad, marking a notable development in the relations between the two countries. This move highlights Turkey’s growing role as a security partner in the region and its expanding military footprint in Africa.
This January, France handed over the Abéché base to Chadian authorities after being ousted from the country. This move comes after Chad ended its military cooperation with its former colonial power in 2024, and French troops began their departure in December of that year.
With France’s recent departure from Chad, Turkey is stepping into the country’s military landscape by deploying drones and securing strategic bases in Abéché and Faya-Largeau. This strategic positioning likely challenges Russia’s expanding influence in Africa’s security affairs.
The Abéché base was previously utilized by French forces. Turkey’s assumption of control over the base fills a strategic void left by Paris, as France concluded decades of military presence in Chad.
According to Turkish and Chadian sources cited by the Heart of Africa news outlet, Turkey has already stationed drones near the Faya-Largeau base, which is situated close to Chad’s border with Libya. Turkish news outlet TRT Haber also reported that Chadian authorities officially granted Turkey control over the Abeche base under an agreement finalized in mid-January. The deal followed negotiations between Turkey’s ambassador in N’Djamena and Chadian officials.
Turkey’s increased military engagement comes shortly after France withdrew its last troops from Chad. For years, Turkish media have been critical of France’s role in the region, attributing instability and economic struggles to Paris. Analysts suggest that Ankara has been positioning itself to take over Chad’s military partnerships in anticipation of France’s exit.
Experts believe that the agreement with N’Djamena may bring peace and stability to the region, particularly in eastern Chad, which borders Sudan—a country currently experiencing turmoil due to conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Bilateral ties between Turkey and Chad have strengthened in recent years. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan previously expressed Ankara’s readiness to deepen military and defense cooperation with Chad, emphasizing the importance of joint security efforts in the Sahel region.
Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno also spoke positively about the growing partnership, stating that “Ankara and N’Djamena support each other in international organizations” and share a common vision for strengthening bilateral ties.
Turkey had earlier supplied Chad with HÜRKUŞ light attack and trainer aircraft, as well as Aksungur and ANKA drones. Additionally, Turkish military advisors and personnel from Turkish companies have been stationed at the Faya-Largeau base.
This move by Turkey reflects its broader strategy to expand influence in Africa, enhancing defense ties and taking on roles previously held by other foreign powers. By establishing a stronger military presence in Chad, Turkey aims to contribute to regional security and counterbalance other international influences on the continent.
