26.07.2026 14:33
The Turkish Air Force will deploy 5 F-16 fighter jets and 76 personnel to Estonia for the period of August-November 2026 as part of NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission. Turkish pilots will maintain 24/7 alert-reaction duty to ensure the security of the airspace of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.
The Turkish Air Force is preparing to once again contribute to NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission. The 181st Jet Fleet Command (Pars Fleet), stationed at Diyarbakır 8th Main Jet Base Command, will serve at Amari Air Base in Estonia between August and November 2026.
Within the scope of the mission, 5 F-16 fighter jets and 76 personnel will be deployed to Estonia. Turkish pilots will maintain 24/7 alert-reaction duty against potential violations in the Baltic airspace.
CRITICAL MISSION FOR NATO'S EASTERN FLANK
Pars Fleet Commander Air Pilot Lieutenant Colonel Özdemir stated that the Baltic Air Policing mission aims to protect the airspace of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, emphasizing the strategic importance of the mission for the defense of NATO's eastern flank.
Özdemir expressed that the mission will significantly contribute to Turkey's international deterrence and its ability to work jointly with allies.
"WE WILL REPRESENT THE TURKISH FLAG IN THE BEST WAY"
Noting that the mission will be carried out with 5 aircraft and 76 personnel, Özdemir said, "We will conduct 24/7 alert-reaction duty against border violations and unidentified aircraft. We will carry out joint missions with other allied countries. We have full confidence that we will represent the Turkish flag in the best way in the Baltic skies."
"THE SKY AWAITS YOU"
Pilot First Lieutenant Özmen emphasized that intensive training and teamwork lie behind their success.
Stating that fighter jets operate not only with pilots but also with the dedication of a broad team from maintenance personnel to tower operators, Özmen addressed young people aspiring to become pilots, saying, "This path requires unwavering discipline, an endless passion for learning, and an iron will. If you want to experience this pride on the path of the vision 'The future is in the skies,' the sky awaits you. Join us."
ROMANIA MISSION ALSO PLANNED
The Turkish Air Force had previously successfully carried out air policing missions in Poland and Romania under NATO. Following the Estonia mission, it is planned that Turkey will also undertake the NATO Air Policing mission in Romania between December 2026 and March 2027.