Turkey sends drone carrier TCG Anadolu to NATO naval exercise in Europe

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Turkey deploys TCG Anadolu drone carrier for NATO naval exercise in Europe
Turkey deploys TCG Anadolu drone carrier for NATO naval exercise in Europe (X @NATOJFCBS)

Turkey has mobilized a naval task group led by the amphibious ship TCG Anadolu to integrate NATO’s Allied Reaction Force in the STEADFAST DART 2026 exercise, considered the alliance’s largest training event this year.

The formation departed in early January and is scheduled to arrive on 29 January in Rota, Spain, marking Turkey’s participation in the first large-scale, peacetime deployment of NATO’s new rapid reaction force.

The group consists of TCG Anadolu, the logistics ship TCG Derya, and the frigates TCG İstanbul and TCG Oruçreis, forming a self-sufficient maritime force prepared for extended operations. The highlight of the deployment is Anadolu, often referred to as a “drone carrier” following the integration of unmanned aerial systems into its operational structure.

Designed for amphibious missions, helicopter support, unmanned platform operations, and command and control functions, the ship symbolizes the modernization of Turkish naval capabilities. According to NATO, the STEADFAST DART exercise aims to assess the readiness, mobility, and interoperability of the Allied Reaction Force across various scenarios, reinforcing deterrence and defense posture in a more sensitive strategic environment.

In addition to combat ships, the Turkish force is bringing amphibious vehicles, embarked air assets, and unmanned systems, enabling joint maritime and littoral operations with allies. The operation takes place as Turkey simultaneously holds, for the first time, the positions of Commander of the Amphibious Task Force and NATO Landing Force, with activities scheduled between January and April in areas ranging from the Mediterranean to the Baltic Sea.

Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @NATOJFCBS | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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