It has a special strategic importance for it Turkey the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean region. Beyond the Cyprus issue and disputes with Greece over maritime jurisdiction zones, the Eastern Mediterranean region is of critical importance for Ankara, since it has also evolved into one of the most dangerous, with the front Israel-Gaza to threaten to involve all neighboring states in war. Ankara wants to increase its military power in the region, which was particularly evident last month with ceremonies in the occupied territories for the 50th anniversary of the Turkish invasion, when 50 ships of the Turkish fleet paraded in the region, sending the message that Ankara is strong and present.

Dalaman base upgrade

Thus the extensive upgrading of the military base in Dalaman, located in Mugla provinceopposite the Rosewhich was made by President Erdogan’s decision, is an important step so that this base can be used by the Turkish Air Force in critical circumstances.

According to the Turkish press, in this upgraded base there will be a headquarters of command of main jet aircraft, where F-16 fighters will be operated under the command of Brigadier General Yusuf Karuk. According to the Miliet newspaper report, maritime patrol aircraft and sea helicopters have been deployed at the Dalaman base. The Dalaman naval base has become the second largest base for Turkey’s drones, which carry out important reconnaissance missions in the Aegean Sea.