Albania receives kamikaze drones from Turkey, strengthening military ties
Photo: Edi Rama and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
Albania received a significant military boost today with the announcement from Prime Minister Edi Rama that Turkey has donated several kamikaze drones. This follows the arrival of Bayraktar combat drones earlier in March, marking a continued deepening of military cooperation between the two nations.
Why is this important: This new donation underscores the strengthening Albania-Turkey defense relationship and comes amidst Albania’s military modernization efforts. The kamikaze drones enhance Albania’s military readiness and add a powerful new tool to its defense capabilities.
Key details: During a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Tirana, Prime Minister Rama expressed gratitude for Turkey’s support in boosting Albania’s military strength. He emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, stating that the new phase in Albania’s military industry is a testament to Turkey’s leadership in defense technology. Rama also highlighted that these drones send a clear message of Albania’s growing military capability while reaffirming that their role is defensive.
In March, Albania also received three Bayraktar drones, which are now stationed at NATO’s tactical airbase in Kuçovë. Known for their advanced technology and efficiency, these drones have been deployed for both military and civil missions by the Albanian Armed Forces.
Limited but growing capabilities: The deal to acquire the drone fleet was signed in December 2022, as part of a broader effort to modernize Albania’s military and leverage cutting-edge drone technology for various sectors. InMarch, Defense Minister Niko Peleshi shared the news that the assembly and operational infrastructure for the Bayraktar drones were completed. To ensure smooth operations, three teams from Albania’s Armed Forces underwent intensive training in Turkey on the command and control of the drones. The Bayraktar drones have already been used for a variety of missions, ranging from surveillance and border control to environmental monitoring.
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