Blue Whale-2024 naval exercise unites 16 nations in Türkiye
The “Blue Whale-2024 Invitation Exercise” hosted by Türkiye is being held with the participation of 16 countries and NATO elements. (AA Photo)
The Blue Whale-2024 Invitation Exercise, hosted by Türkiye, has commenced in the Eastern Mediterranean with the participation of 16 countries and NATO elements.
A briefing for observers and journalists was held at the Aksaz Naval Base in Marmaris, Mugla, outlining the purpose and phases of the exercise.
Purpose and goals of exercise
Rear Admiral Timur Yilmaz, commander of the Submarine Fleet, emphasized that the goal of the Blue Whale-2024 exercise is to enhance the knowledge and skills of participating units and commands in anti-submarine warfare, improve readiness for actual operations, and test procedures that boost joint operational capabilities.
Participants and scope
Units from Türkiye’s Naval, Air, and Coast Guard forces are participating in the exercise alongside NATO and allied nations. Rear Admiral Yilmaz noted that Canada, Spain, Greece and NATO Standing Naval Group 2, featuring ships such as HMCS Charlottetown and SPS Cristobal Colon, are part of the operation.
From Türkiye, contributions include:
- Five submarines
- Three frigates
- Two corvettes
- Two auxiliary ships
- Three maritime patrol aircraft
- Seven anti-submarine warfare helicopters
- One UAV
- Eight F-16 fighter jets
Exercise structure and phases
The exercise is divided into five main phases:
- Force assembly and pre-sailing briefing: Initial coordination and strategic preparation.
- Basic sea training: Initial exercises focusing on fundamental skills.
- Advanced sea training: Concentrated anti-submarine warfare exercises.
- Evaluation phase: Analyzing performance and operational readiness.
- Distinguished observer day: Culminating in an academic panel on the impact of evolving technology on submarine warfare and defense industry presentations.
Significance of anti-submarine warfare
Rear Admiral Yilmaz explained that anti-submarine warfare, a multi-domain operation involving air, surface, and subsurface units, relies on intelligence and information sharing to counteract enemy submarine threats effectively. Advanced underwater sensors and weapons will be employed for detecting and tracking non-allied submarines during the exercise.
