Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jets took off from Bandırma as part of EFES-2026, successfully striking designated targets in the exercise area.

During the press tour of the International Anatolian Phoenix-2026 Exercise in Konya, a realistic personnel recovery scenario was carried out with live munitions and multinational participation.

A Greek media analysis claimed that Türkiye’s deployment of F-16s to the TRNC could trigger legal and political debate under US defense export regulations.

Greek media claimed that Türkiye’s possible deployment of F-16s to the TRNC could violate U.S. export regulations, turning the issue into a new political pressure campaign.

Bayraktar KIZILELMA achieved a major milestone by locking onto an F-16 and scoring a simulated direct hit using the GÖKDOĞAN air-to-air missile and MURAD AESA radar.

Minister Kacır announced that TÜBİTAK BİLGEM-developed EDPOD for F-16s has entered service. The system detects, classifies, and geolocates hostile radars, enhancing Türkiye’s electronic warfare capacity.

The U.S. approved the sale of 40 new F-16s and upgrades for Türkiye’s fleet, alongside 40 F-35s for Greece, linking the deal to Sweden’s NATO accession.

Romania will soon receive the first 3 of 32 F-16s purchased from Norway, significantly boosting its air defense capabilities and NATO interoperability.