DJIBOUTI (SD) – The United States has significantly increased its airstrike campaign in Somalia, with nearly 50 strikes recorded in the first three months of 2026, according to the United States Africa Command.

In a recent statement, AFRICOM confirmed that the latest strike targeted Al-Shabaab militants about 80 miles northwest of Kismayo, bringing the total number of strikes this year to 49. The command said the operations are conducted in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia to weaken militant capabilities.

AFRICOM did not disclose details about the aircraft or weapons used, citing operational security concerns. The rise in strikes follows a record year in 2025, when nearly 125 airstrikes were carried out, surpassing the previous high of 63 in 2019.

The air campaign is not limited to southern Somalia. Northern مناطق, particularly the Golis Mountains, have also been targeted against ISIS-linked fighters, while Al-Shabaab remains active across much of southern and central Somalia.

U.S. forces continue to support Somali security operations through training, intelligence, and advisory roles. The increase in strikes is linked to expanded authority granted by U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, allowing AFRICOM commanders greater flexibility in conducting air operations.

The surge in airstrikes reflects a more aggressive U.S. counterterrorism posture in Somalia, signalling that Washington views the country as a key front against groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS. While intensified operations may disrupt militant networks in the short term, they also raise ongoing questions about long-term effectiveness, civilian impact, and the sustainability of a strategy heavily reliant on airpower.