Türkiye hosted the “Nusret-2023 Invitation Exercise” in the Gulf of Saros, turning the event into a platform for international military cooperation and joint operational display. The exercise, which brought together the Turkish Naval Forces, Air Force, and Coast Guard Command, also included participants from NATO’s Standing Mine Countermeasures Group-2 and several allied nations. This broad participation underlined both the strategic importance of the exercise and the depth of multinational security cooperation.

The drill began with a successful mine-laying operation carried out by TCG Bayraktar. Complementing this, a C-130 aircraft deployed mines from the air into the sea. These mines were then detected using ROV systems and neutralized by experienced Naval Mine Clearance Divers. The Light Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (HOSA) also played a critical role in reconnaissance and mine detection operations beneath the surface, showcasing advanced technological capabilities.

In a tactical scenario, Turkish SAS commandos parachuted from helicopters into a designated mine area. The commandos secured the site, attached detonators to the mines, and were later evacuated by helicopter to a safe zone before the explosives were successfully detonated. This phase demonstrated the high level of skill, discipline, and coordination of Turkish special forces. The exercise concluded with the medical evacuation of simulated injured personnel and an official ceremonial parade.

Nusret-2023 highlighted not only the operational capabilities of the Turkish Armed Forces but also the collective strength of NATO and allied forces in maintaining regional security. The strong participation sent a strategic message about unity and deterrence across critical maritime domains, from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean.