Ankara, March 9: Turkey’s Ministry of Defense has announced the deployment of six F-16 fighter jets in Northern Cyprus as a security measure. This statement follows a recent drone attack on the island.
The ministry stated, “In light of recent developments in our region, six F-16 fighter aircraft and air defense systems have been deployed in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) starting Monday.”
This announcement pertains to the area recognized by Ankara.
In recent days, European powers have increased military presence on the island, which is divided along ethnic lines. This escalation follows a drone attack last week at the British Akrotiri air base in Cyprus. Security officials believe the drone was launched by Hezbollah, an ally of Iran based in Lebanon.
Thousands of British troops, known as the British Forces Cyprus, are stationed in the UK sovereign base areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia in Cyprus.
The ministry also mentioned that this deployment is part of a plan to strengthen the security arrangements of the breakaway state.
It further stated, “Evaluations will be made based on developments, and necessary measures will be taken according to the outcomes.”
It is important to note that Turkey does not recognize the Greek Cypriot administration, a member of the European Union, and is the only country to recognize Northern Cyprus.
Last week, NATO defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Iran into Turkish airspace. Turkey has criticized the European deployments in Cyprus, claiming they increase the risk of dragging the island into conflict.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
