United States leaves Baledogle over degraded runway
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Shabelle Media Network
The United States has moved its personnel from Baledogle air base in Somalia because of the dangerous deterioration of its runway. Repairs are expected to cost tens of millions of dollars, according to Lieutenant General John Brennan, cited by Shabelle Media Network.
The US military has explained the relocation of most of its personnel from the Baledogle military airfield, in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region, by the deterioration of its runway, which has become dangerous for landings, according to Lieutenant General John Brennan, deputy commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).
John Brennan said on Tuesday that the decision to leave Baledogle was "100%" motivated by economic considerations, with repairs to the airfield expected to cost tens of millions of dollars. Most US personnel have been transferred to Mogadishu, located about 90 kilometres south-east of Baledogle, where they will continue their operations, Shabelle Media Network reports.
Baledogle had for several years served as a platform for US operations against al-Shabaab, in particular air strikes against the group and the training of Somali special forces. The United States had further funded work in May 2025 intended to strengthen the airfield’s capacities, notably housing, medical facilities and security infrastructure.
John Brennan nevertheless indicated that the relocation of personnel should not be interpreted as a reduction in US support for Somali security forces. Washington continues to provide these forces with air strikes, training, intelligence and logistical support in their fight against al-Shabaab.
