Ankara: Trkiye announced on Thursday its vigilant monitoring of potential risks in the Black Sea due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, following the discovery of a U.S.-origin unmanned submarine near Ordu's coast. "On March 21, 2026, an unmanned maritime vehicle of US origin, believed to have drifted ashore due to engine failure off the coast of Unye in (Trkiye's Black Sea city of) Ordu, was safely neutralized by Underwater Defense Command teams," stated National Defense Ministry spokesman Rear Adm. Zeki Akturk.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rear Adm. Akturk emphasized the importance of caution in the region, particularly highlighting the risks posed by unmanned naval and aerial vehicles used in the ongoing war. He urged citizens, particularly fishermen and seafarers, to report any suspicious objects or stranded vehicles to authorities. Trkiye's Naval Forces Command continues its 24/7 surveillance, reconnaissance, and patrol activities to secure maritime jurisdiction areas and ensure navigation safety.
In a related development, Trkiye announced the successful evacuation of its soldiers from Baghdad, following NATO's decision to withdraw its mission from Iraq. Rear Adm. Akturk noted that Trkiye supported the evacuation of personnel from allied nations as part of NATO's withdrawal plan, reaffirming the Turkish Armed Forces' commitment to peace and stability.
The Turkish Ministry of Defense also expressed concern over escalating violence in the Middle East, particularly Israel's actions affecting regional stability. Akturk called for restraint and emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy, citing Israel's military operations in Lebanon and Syria as violations of international law.
Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted a new defense agreement between the UK and Trkiye, involving the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon jets. The agreement, signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, includes comprehensive training, logistics, and technical support for the aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Ministry addressed the recent helicopter crash in Qatar, confirming that an investigation is underway. The Turkish Armed Forces are taking additional security measures to ensure the safety of personnel in Qatar, in collaboration with Qatari authorities.
Finally, Trkiye is progressing with plans to establish a NATO Corps Headquarters as part of NATO's Southeastern Regional Plan, aimed at supporting deterrence and defense activities in the region. The headquarters will be under the command of a Turkish general, with ongoing efforts to transform it into a multinational structure in coordination with NATO.