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

Türkiye and Egypt to Hold 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 September 26, 2025. This marks the first such drills between the two nations in over a decade, indicating a significant improvement in bilateral relations.

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

This development follows a period of warming relations between Ankara and Cairo, particularly after diplomatic efforts to address issues related to Libya and energy disputes. The joint exercises represent a notable shift in the dynamics of their bilateral ties.

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