Türkiye and Egypt to Conduct First Joint Naval Drills in 13 Years

Türkiye and Egypt to Conduct First Joint Naval Drills in 13 Years

Türkiye and Egypt will conduct joint naval and air exercises named "Friendship Sea" (Bahr El Sadaka) in the eastern Mediterranean from September 22 to 26, 2025. This event marks a significant improvement in bilateral relations after over a decade of tensions.

The exercises will involve Turkish frigates, submarines, and F-16 jets operating alongside Egyptian naval units. The primary objective of the drills is to enhance interoperability and regional security cooperation. A Distinguished Visitors Day is scheduled for September 25, where naval commanders from both nations will be in attendance.

This development occurs amid a warming of relations between Ankara and Cairo, following diplomatic efforts to address issues such as the situation in Libya and energy disputes. For more on related coverage, see recent developments in the region.