Cairo, Egypt – The Turkish Ministry of Defense announced the resumption of the “Sea of Friendship” joint military exercises between Turkey and Egypt in the eastern Mediterranean. This comes after a 13-year hiatus. These exercises aim to strengthen bilateral relations and develop the interoperability of the two countries’ navies.
Maneuver details
Turkish Defense Ministry spokesman Zeki Aktürk explained that the maneuvers will be held from September 22 to 26. The Turkish frigates TGG Oruc Reis and TGG Gediz, and the assault boats TGG Embat and TGG Bora will participate. The maneuvers will also include the TGG Gur submarine and two F-16 fighter jets. Units from the Egyptian Navy will also participate.
Aktürk noted that the “Special Observers’ Day” of the maneuvers, scheduled for September 25, will be attended by the commanders of the naval forces of both Türkiye and Egypt.
Visit of Egyptian ships
As part of the maneuvers, the ships “Long Live Egypt” and “Fouad Zekry” will visit the Turkish port of Aksaz. This step aims to enhance maritime cooperation and joint coordination between the two countries.
Background of the maneuvers
The “Sea of Friendship” maneuvers began in 2009 and continued annually until 2013, when they were suspended for administrative and strategic reasons. Their resumption today reflects both sides’ desire to strengthen military and security cooperation between Egypt and Turkey.
The importance of maneuvers
These maneuvers are part of efforts to enhance regional security in the Eastern Mediterranean. They also contribute to raising the combat efficiency of the naval forces and reflect the commitment of both countries.
