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What was the Somali National Army?

The Somali National Army was the official fighting force for the country of Somalia. It was created in 1960 when the nation first became independent. During the 1970s, it grew into a powerful group with many tanks and airplanes. They are best known for fighting the big Ogaden War against Ethiopia.

Who supported the Somali National Army in the Ogaden War?

At first, the Soviet Union gave the Somali army a lot of help with training and modern weapons. However, the Soviet Union later changed its mind and decided to help Ethiopia instead. Cuba also sent thousands of soldiers to help Ethiopia fight back. This change in support made it very hard for the Somali army to win.

What happened in the Ogaden War?

In 1977, the Somali army marched into the Ogaden area of Ethiopia to take control of the land. They had great success at the start and captured much of the region. By 1978, Ethiopia and its new allies pushed the Somali forces all the way back. This defeat left the Somali army much weaker than it was before the war.

Why did the Somali National Army collapse?

The loss in the Ogaden War caused big problems for the leaders in Somalia. The government lost its control and the country began to fall apart. By the 1990s, the nation entered a long and difficult civil war. During this time, the organized army stopped functioning as it once had.

Does the Somali National Army still exist?

Yes, the army was brought back to life starting in the 2000s. Many other countries around the world helped by training the new soldiers and sending supplies. Today, the army works to bring peace and safety back to the country. It continues to grow and learn with support from its international partners.

Home LibrarySomali National Army

Army (Combined forces)

Somali National Army

The Somali National Army was the military force of Somalia that fought in the Ogaden War against Ethiopia in 1977-1978.

Somalia Founded 1960 Army (Combined forces)

History

The Somali National Army was formed when Somalia gained independence in 1960. In the 1970s, Somalia built a large army with help from the Soviet Union. The army had tanks, aircraft, and modern weapons. In 1977, Somalia invaded the Ogaden region of Ethiopia, starting the Ogaden War. The Somali National Army initially did well, capturing much of the Ogaden region. But Ethiopia, also supported by the Soviet Union and Cuba, fought back with a larger force. Cuban troops and Soviet advisers helped Ethiopia push the Somali army out of the Ogaden. By 1978, Somalia had lost the war and its army was weakened. After the war, Somalia's government collapsed and the country fell into civil war in the 1990s. The Somali National Army was rebuilt in the 2000s with international help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Notable Operations

Invasion of the Ogaden 1977

Conflicts

Ogaden WarSomali Civil WarCold War

Sources

Back to Somalia

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