NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise Launches
**The NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise, organized by the Naval Forces Command, has officially commenced, taking place across the Black Sea, Aegean Sea, and Eastern Mediterranean.** A press briefing was held on January 6, 2025, at the Naval Warfare Center Command in Gölcük, revealing the extensive participation of various military branches, including the Naval Forces, Land Forces, Air Forces, and Coast Guard.
Scheduled activities for the exercise are set to occur from January 7 to 16, 2025. Key events include “Preparation for Operations Training” on January 7-8, followed by “Distinguished Observer Day” activities on January 9 in Aksaz/Marmaris. Additionally, participants will engage in “Port Visits” and “Logistical Integration Activities” on January 10-11, and “Live-Fire Training” on January 12-13. The exercise will culminate with “Multi-Threat Environment Operations Training” from January 14-16.
High-Level Attendance at Press Briefing
The January 6 press briefing saw an impressive turnout of high-ranking officials, including Rear Admiral Hüseyin Tığlı, Commander of Naval Training and Education, and Rear Admiral Mehmet Savaş Eser, Commander of Naval Aviation. Other notable attendees included Rear Admiral Timur Yılmaz, Rear Admiral Kenan Kaan Türkkan, and Rear Admiral Halil İlker Avcı, highlighting the significance of this exercise within the Turkish Navy.
During the briefing, it was disclosed that the exercise will see participation from 90 ships, 50 aircraft, 2 Special Assault Teams (SAT), 3 Underwater Defense Teams (SAS), and a total of 20,000 personnel. Rear Admiral Kemal Kaan Türkkan elaborated on the exercise’s focus on fundamental naval warfare, coastal unit training, and operations in multi-threat environments.
Modernization and Key Activities
Among the notable assets participating in the NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise is the TCG Oruçreis, the first vessel to complete modernization under the Barbaros Class Frigate Mid-Life Modernization Project. The exercise will include multiple planned port visits, with 59 ships scheduled to make 22 stops across the Black Sea, Aegean Sea, Eastern Mediterranean, and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on January 10-11.
Participants will also conduct various training exercises, including ground bombardment drills, air defense exercises, and torpedo firings from submarines. Naval air elements will practice launching MAM-C, MAM-L, and gun rocket systems, alongside water bombings from Tuzla class patrol boats. Furthermore, the exercise will incorporate electronic warfare training utilizing the Pelican Electronic Warfare Simulator in the Finike region.
Execution of Specialized Operations
A highlight of the NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise included a fast-rope operation executed by the Naval Forces’ Amphibious Assault Team from the TCG GÖKSU. This operation showcased the Navy’s readiness and operational capabilities in amphibious warfare.
Such exercises are crucial for enhancing the collaborative efforts among the different branches of the military, ensuring that forces are prepared for a variety of operational scenarios. The NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise not only strengthens national defense but also emphasizes the importance of joint training and interoperability among Turkish armed forces.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The NAVY HOMELAND-2025 Exercise represents a significant step forward in Turkey’s maritime defense strategy. As the exercise unfolds, the insights gained from these operations are expected to inform future military strategies and enhance operational effectiveness.
By focusing on modernization and joint training, the Turkish Navy aims to bolster its readiness against potential threats in the region. This exercise not only serves to demonstrate Turkey’s military capabilities but also reinforces its commitment to maintaining security in crucial maritime areas.
