The Eastern Mediterranean-2025 (DA-25) Invitation Exercise, held under the auspices of the Naval Forces Command, started in the Eastern Mediterranean on 22 November. The exercise will continue until 3 December.
The main purpose of the exercise was stated as ensuring the integration of participating headquarters and assigned forces, evaluating and reinforcing the training of the units. In addition, the exercise aims to provide a training environment in which decision-makers, relevant personnel, and participating units can improve their knowledge and skills related to crisis operations.
Exercise Elements with Broad Participation
Various force commands and civilian institutions/organizations are participating extensively in the Eastern Mediterranean-2025 Exercise. The participating elements are as follows:
• Naval, Air, and Land Elements: 22 ships, 4 submarines, 4 maritime patrol aircraft, 9 helicopters, 5 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), 1 unmanned surface vessel, 44 F-16 fighter jets, 1 CH-47 helicopter, 4 general-purpose helicopters, 4 combat surface elements, and 4 Mine Countermeasure (MCM) units.
• Special Forces and Support Units: 1 Underwater Offense (SAT) Task Team, 2 Underwater Defense (SAS) Task Teams, 1 Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Team, and 1 Amphibious Marine Infantry Platoon.
• Coast Guard: 4 Coast Guard boats.
Civil Institutions Also Participating in the Exercise
In addition to the Ministry of National Defense, civilian institutions and organizations are also participating in the exercise in order to strengthen coordination in crisis and disaster scenarios. The participating civilian institutions are:
• Ministry of Interior
• Ministry of Health
• Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure
• Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay)
After the exercise activities conclude on December 3, a post-exercise evaluation briefing will be held.
SOURCE: C4Defence
