The excitement began early in the morning as we prepared for our flight from Ankara to Dalaman on board a C-72 transport plane of the Turkish Naval Forces. Once we arrived at Aksaz Naval Base were first went on board the frigate TCG Salihreis for the weekly press briefing. Later we were transferred to the frigate TCG Oruçreis. This ship is fresh out of the Mid-Life Upgrade program.
The day unfolded with various operations showcasing the Navy’s capabilities. As the TCG Salihreis set sail after the arrival of Yaşar Güler the Minister of Defence, the Turkish Chief of Staff and the Commanders of , the first activities involved mine countermeasures. The TCG Anamur mine-hunting ship and an underwater defence team aboard an SH-70 Seahawk helicopter carried out a Tactical Claw operation. They expertly identified and neutralized simulated mines, demonstrating their ability to safeguard high-value assets from underwater threats.
Next came the amphibious operations—a thrilling display of precision and power. The Navy conducted an amphibious assault on a designated island, complete with airstrikes by attack helicopters to eliminate potential threats. Amphibious assault teams and marine infantry were deployed both by sea and air to secure the island, capturing it with coordinated efficiency. The LST TCG Sancaktar was the mother ship for the seaborne landing force supporting the LCMs and Zaha amphibious armoured vehicles.
Maritime control operations followed, featuring a fast-rope deployment from a helicopter onto the deck of the TCG Göksu. This dramatic manoeuvre was part of a maritime security operation, emphasizing the versatility and readiness of the Navy’s assault teams.
Anti-submarine warfare was another highlight of the morning. The operation began with a sonar dipping exercise by an SH-70B Seahawks ASW helicopter, followed by the deployment of sonobuoys and UAV data relays to refine contact information. When the simulated target met engagement criteria, a P-72 maritime patrol aircraft launched a REXTORP exercise torpedo. The scenario culminated with the submarine TCG Dolunay surfacing near TCG Salihreis, an impressive demonstration of the Navy’s ability to detect, track, and engage underwater threats.
The morning ended with a replenishment-at-sea operation, where supplies were seamlessly transferred between TCG Salihreis and Ada-class corvettes TCG Burgazada and TCG Büyükada. It was a testament to the logistical expertise required to sustain naval forces during extended operations.
The afternoon began with the Bayraktar TB-2 UAV launching a MAM-L munition onto a surface target. This was followed by simultaneous surface fire operations by four Kilic II-class fast attack crafts. Unfortunately, our ship TCG Oruçreis was too far away from the action, thus we were not able to observe.
The day concluded with a naval parade. Surface vessels, submarines, and aircraft participated in a coordinated display, saluting the gathered observers.
Witnessing the Distinguished Visitors Day was an unforgettable experience. It was a powerful reminder of the Turkish Navy’s readiness and expertise, ensuring security in a dynamic maritime environment.
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