Türkiye secures F-16 deal with US, confirms Ministry of National Defense

Türkiye’s Ministry of National Defense has confirmed the completion of agreements with the U.S. to purchase and modernize F-16 fighter jets on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Armed Forces continue their effective counterterrorism operations in northern Iraq and Syria.

F-16 fighter jet deal

Responding to claims about potential reductions in the purchase of F-16 fighter jets and modernization kits, Admiral Zeki Akturk, the Ministry’s Press and Public Relations Consultant, made positive remarks.

Contracts have been signed, and details are being worked out through meetings between delegations. The specifics will be shared with the public once finalized.

Zeki Akturk

Ongoing counterterrorism efforts

Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk provided updates during a press briefing:

• Recent operations: In the past week alone, 72 terrorists have been neutralized, bringing the total to 1,427 since the beginning of the year.
• Breakdown: 681 were neutralized in northern Iraq and 746 north of Syria.

Border security

• PKK defections: 2 PKK terrorists surrendered at the Habur border post.
• Seizures: Ongoing operations in the Pence-Kilit region led to the seizure of large quantities of explosives, weapons, ammunition, and supplies.
• Prevention of illegal crossings: “In the past week, 340 individuals attempting illegal crossings, including four terrorists, were apprehended. This year, 6,707 individuals have been caught, and 65,225 were prevented from crossing.”

Akturk emphasized the importance of continued cooperation with Iraq:

Our collaborative efforts with the Iraqi Central Government and Regional Administration have accelerated the disintegration of terrorist organizations and paved the way for lasting stability and security.

Zeki Akturk

50th anniversary of Cyprus Peace Operation

Akturk outlined events planned for the anniversary:

• Concerts and events: Jointly organized by the Ministry of National Defense and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, featuring performances by the Harmony Band and Mehteran Unit.
• Air shows: Turkish Stars Aerobatic Team and F-16 fighter jet displays.
• Exhibitions: A special exhibition at the Cyprus Turkish History, Culture, and National Struggle Museum, open until September 30.

International contributions

Akturk highlighted Türkiye’s ongoing contributions to regional and global peace:

• NATO participation: Minister Yasar Guler signed agreements related to NATO’s surveillance initiatives.
• Support after earthquakes: Coordination with NATO to dismantle temporary shelters and health units provided after the February 2023 earthquakes.

Israel continues its systematic genocide against Palestinians. The damage to the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital in Gaza clearly violates international humanitarian law.

Zeki Akturk

Relations with Syria, Iraq

Akturk reiterated Türkiye’s stance on maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism:

We are committed to eliminating terrorism in Syria and ensuring the country’s territorial integrity and political stability.

Zeki Akturk