Turkish Air Force conducts training exercises south of Cyprus

On September 21, 2026, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense announced that its Air Force conducted an extensive training exercise south of Cyprus and in the international airspace of the Eastern Mediterranean. The operation involved multiple aircraft departing from various air bases to participate in coordinated flight maneuvers.

The mission formation included F-16 fighter jets, an E-7T airborne early warning and control aircraft, a KC-135R aerial refueling tanker, and a T-70 helicopter. According to the Turkish defense ministry, the primary objective of these maneuvers was to maintain high operational readiness and to demonstrate the nation's resolve in protecting its rights and interests within the Mediterranean region.

Turkish officials described the exercise as the work of "steel wings in the Mediterranean skies," emphasizing that such activities are part of an ongoing strategy to enhance military capabilities. The ministry stated that these training efforts would continue with determination to ensure the country's influence and presence are maintained throughout the Mediterranean maritime and aerial zones.