Turkey Launches Large-Scale Military Exercise 'EFES-2026' in the Aegean Sea

Large-Scale Military Maneuver: 'EFES-2026' Gets Underway in Turkey

The Turkish Armed Forces have launched the 'EFES-2026' military exercise, considered one of the largest maneuvers conducted by the country in recent years. According to reports from several Turkish news channels, including Son Dakika Haberler Türkiye, operations are centered in the Aegean Sea region and include a broad deployment of land, naval, and air forces.

As part of the exercise, elite units of the Turkish army carried out a "dev çıkarma harekâtı" (large amphibious landing operation) against simulated enemy forces. The channel TÜRK SAVUNMA SANAYİ reported that Turkish fighter jets were observed in the skies over Çanakkale as part of the operational preparations, which are intended to test inter-service coordination.

The Turkish defense industry occupies a central place in the exercise. According to the Türk Savunma Sanayi Haberleri channel, MKE is showcasing its range of capabilities, from small-caliber ammunition to 203mm shells and 'DENİZHAN' naval guns. Additionally, the channel reported on the use of the indigenous 'KARAOK' anti-tank system during live-fire drills.

The Turkish Ministry of National Defense released footage from the field in the Izmir region, where the combined exercise is being held. The Haber Gündem channel emphasized that this is a "Birleşik, Müşterek Fiili Atışlı Arazi Tatbikatı" (Combined, Joint Live-Fire Field Exercise), which included heavy artillery barrages and precise strikes on targets.