F-16 fighter jets belonging to the Turkish Air Force Command took off from Bandırma in Balıkesir as part of the EFES-2026 Exercise conducted by the Turkish Armed Forces. The activity, coordinated by the Ministry of National Defence, demonstrated the operational readiness of pilots and technical personnel stationed at the 6th Main Jet Base Command.

At the air base in Bandırma, pilots and maintenance teams began preparations in the early morning hours. Before the mission, pilots received briefings covering the exercise scenario, target information, flight routes, mission assignments and safety procedures. Technical personnel then carried out detailed maintenance, system and munition checks on the F-16 fighter jets to ensure they were fully ready for the mission.

Following the completion of preparations, the pilots moved to the aircraft and proceeded to the runway. The F-16 fighter jets took off in formation and headed toward the exercise area in İzmir. During the mission, designated targets were destroyed by Turkish Air Force elements as part of the planned training scenario.

The exercise aimed to test and improve several key capabilities, including air support operations, target engagement, close air support and coordinated mission execution. These activities are essential for strengthening the ability of air assets to operate effectively alongside land and naval forces in a joint operational environment.

EFES-2026 features realistic scenarios designed to closely reflect real combat conditions. In this context, the rapid deployment of air assets, accurate target engagement, timely strike capability and coordination with other force elements were among the main priorities. The participation of F-16 fighter jets highlighted the Turkish Air Force’s role in supporting joint operations and increasing battlefield effectiveness.

In addition to air elements, units from the Turkish Land Forces and Naval Forces are also taking part in the exercise. This enables different branches of the Turkish Armed Forces to train together in a coordinated operational environment. In modern warfare, the ability of land, air and naval forces to act jointly is one of the most critical factors for mission success.

Anadolu Agency documented the pre-flight preparations at the 6th Main Jet Base Command, including the pilots’ mission readiness process and the technical preparation of the F-16 fighter jets. The footage showed pilots preparing their flight equipment, technical crews conducting final checks and the aircraft moving to the runway for takeoff.

EFES-2026 continues according to its planned schedule with the participation of multiple force elements. The missions carried out by F-16 fighter jets departing from Bandırma demonstrated the high readiness level and operational capability of the Turkish Air Force. The exercise also contributes to the Turkish Armed Forces’ deterrence by training personnel under realistic scenarios and improving joint operational experience.