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.

Developed by TÜBİTAK SAGE, the KUZGUN missile family will join the Turkish Armed Forces in 2024, operable from F-16s, UAVs, MMU, HÜRJET, and HÜRKUŞ platforms.

At the NATO Summit, Türkiye’s F-16 request was discussed; Biden and US officials voiced support, while some groups launched a social media campaign against the sale.