Türkiye has announced that the large-scale naval exercise “Blue Homeland 2025” will take place from January 7 to 16, aiming to boost the operational readiness of its naval forces in the Black Sea, Aegean, and Mediterranean.
The drill will involve 87 surface ships, 7 submarines, 7 unmanned vessels, 31 aircraft, 17 helicopters, and 28 drones. A Turkish Ministry of Defense spokesperson stated that the exercise will focus on mission efficiency, management capabilities, and joint operability.
The exercise comes shortly before a planned meeting between Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reflecting Ankara’s ongoing commitment to its strategic naval doctrine.
Ahead of the drill, Türkiye issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for January 3 - February 4, designating five areas for “search and rescue” and “environmental protection” exercises. Greek media, including To Vima, have labeled the NOTAM “illegal,” arguing it effectively divides the Aegean into two zones.
Simultaneously, Türkiye continues to strengthen its naval fleet, initiating projects for missile-equipped destroyers, domestic submarines, and a new aircraft carrier larger than Anadolu.
Greek defense sources cited by To Vima indicate that while Greece’s armed forces remain on alert and will monitor movements, they do not see the drill as a direct threat.
