Türkiye and Egypt have launched their first joint naval exercise since 2011, signalling closer cooperation after years of strained ties.
The five-day drill, Bahr El Sadaka (“Friendship Sea”), runs from 22–26 September in the Eastern Mediterranean. According to the Turkish Defence Ministry, Türkiye deployed frigates, submarines, fast attack craft, and F-16s, while Egypt also committed major naval assets.
Experts see the exercise as part of a broader strategic realignment:
• Both states stress interoperability and long-term military cooperation.
• Shared positions on Gaza, Syria, and energy security underpin the rapprochement.
• New defence agreements, including a Cairo-Havelsan deal on drone production, point to lasting industrial ties.
Analysts argue the drills reflect shifting alliances in the Mediterranean, adding weight to Türkiye and Egypt’s regional influence at a time of heightened tensions over maritime security, Gaza, and Israel’s actions.
Source: TRT World
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