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Starting in 1978, Italy furnished more military aid to Somalia than any other Western country. This aid included several large shipments of Fiat trucks, which formed the backbone of the SNA's logistics system throughout the 1980s. Beginning in 1979, many Italian companies, assisted by government-subsidized export credits, supplied aircraft and training for SAF flight and ground crews. The aircraft included six SIAI-Marchetti SF-260W single- engine trainer/tactical support aircraft, four Aeritalia G-222 twin-engine transports, and two Piaggio 166 transports. Fiat also sold light tanks and armored cars to the SNA. By 1980 Italian exports to Somalia amounted to US$124 million. The following year, Italian foreign minister Emilio Colombo visited Mogadishu and signed a US$40 million aid package. Subsequently, Italy furnished an array of military equipment to Somalia, including armored vehicles, trucks, tanks, helicopters, small arms, and ammunition. In July 1983, Italy and Somalia signed an accord that provided for the training of Somali military personnel. In February 1985, the two countries concluded a new military assistance agreement. Apart from this cooperation, Italian naval ships regularly called at Mogadishu; in May 1986, for example, the frigates Scirocco and Grecale made a five-day visit to Somalia. In the late 1980s, Italy started rehabilitating the SNA's M-47 tanks; however, deteriorating conditions throughout Somalia prevented the completion of this program. On July 11, 1990, citing delays in the democratization and national reconciliation processes, Italy announced the withdrawal from Somalia of its fifty-six army and air force advisers and instructors.


Today Italy together with Japan pays for all military training of Somali police force outside Somalia. And supports regularly the goverment with Aid.

Fiat

KingMJ wrote:Fiat

Saaxib Fiat was global at that time. It was just as big and strong as general motors is for the US. Fiat manufactured military vehicles and equipment, not only cars.

Yh but Sxb it reminds me my dad used to say that fiat cars used to breakdown all the time in the high-roads in Somalia but all the reer xamars were still saying Fiat is the best Car in the world.

While there cars only last a year then its in the scrapyard