Türkiye attracts attention in NATO Dynamic Mariner/Flotex 25 exercise

By Senhan Bolelli and Serdar Dincel

CADIZ, Spain/ISTANBUL (AA) - Türkiye, participated in the Dynamic Mariner/Flotex 25 exercise and attracted attention with its military personnel, and the number of ships and equipment.

NATO's largest exercise of the year began March 24 in the Gulf of Cadiz in southwestern Spain and will continue until April 4.

About 4,000 soldiers from eight countries participated, with Türkiye taking part with its Amphibious Task Force Headquarters and the Amphibious Marine Infantry Battalion deployed in the Retin Training Area, contributing 1,300 personnel and four ships.

Among the four Turkish ships participating in the exercise, TCG Sancaktar served as the flagship and command platform, while NATO Standing Maritime Group-2 (SNMG-2) was commanded by a Turkish admiral from the frigate TCG Kemalreis.

Türkiye also showcased domestically produced military equipment such as armored vehicles, cannons, and rifles during media day of the exercise.

Turkish Amphibious Task Force Commander Rear Adm. Nihat Baran told a news conference that Türkiye would assume command of the NATO Amphibious Task Force Command and the Landing Force Command for the first time as part of the exercise and would hold the responsibility for one year.

"The fact that Türkiye is assuming the NATO Amphibious Task Force Command for the first time is a concrete indication of our country's commitment and contributions to the NATO alliance.

"Türkiye will be the 7th country among NATO members to meet the headquarters and platform requirements of such a force.

"The support provided by our country makes a significant contribution to NATO's deterrence and collective defense posture," Baran added.