One of NATO’s most significant military activities of 2026, Steadfast Dart 2026, is being conducted in Germany with broad allied participation. Organized to enhance the Alliance’s deterrence posture and strengthen collective defense capabilities, the exercise sees Türkiye playing a key operational role. The Turkish Armed Forces have deployed approximately 2,000 personnel, primarily from the 66th Mechanized Infantry Brigade Command, demonstrating both readiness and operational depth.

The exercise is carried out within the framework of NATO’s Allied Reaction Force (ARF), designed to ensure rapid response to emerging crises. In this context, Türkiye assumes a strategic mission, showcasing its rapid deployment and force projection capabilities. Planned by the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), the drill includes nearly 10,000 troops from eight allied nations. The primary objective is to test the allies’ ability to quickly deploy, concentrate forces, and conduct coordinated multinational operations in potential crisis zones.

Türkiye’s contribution extends beyond manpower. Units from the 66th Mechanized Infantry Brigade—including a Motorized Infantry Battalion, Artillery Battery, Combat Engineer Company, Maintenance Unit, and Field Services Support Unit—are actively participating. Turkish forces are utilizing domestically produced weapons, equipment, and ammunition, highlighting the strength and technological advancement of Türkiye’s defense industry on an international stage.

The deployment process began on January 20, 2026, with Türkiye’s multi-purpose amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu and civilian transport vessels. Military vehicles, equipment, and ammunition were transported by sea to the Port of Emden in Germany, while personnel were deployed via airlift. The first aircraft departing from Çorlu Air Base successfully landed at Wunstorf Air Base, marking a critical phase of the strategic deployment.

Following the completion of logistical preparations, Turkish units will be stationed at the Bergen Training Area in Germany. There, they will conduct joint training activities across multiple battlefield functional areas alongside allied forces. Steadfast Dart 2026 not only measures NATO’s high-readiness force mobility and interoperability but also reinforces Türkiye’s critical role within the Alliance. The exercise once again demonstrates the operational discipline of Turkish troops and the growing impact of domestically developed defense technologies in multinational military environments.