Adana: The Turkish Ministry of Defense confirms that Incirlik Air Base is a Turkish military base, not an American one. The Turkish Ministry of Defense confirmed that Incirlik Air Base in Adana province, southern Turkey, is a Turkish base and houses the 10th Air Base Command with its squadron of F-16 fighter jets, a squadron of refueling aircraft, and a number of drones.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Defense Ministry spokesman Zeki Aktrk stated in a press release on Thursday that all facilities at the base are owned by Turkey, and the base commander is a Turkish brigadier general. He added that the presence of American soldiers does not mean it is an American base.

Aktrk also noted the presence of military personnel from Spain, Poland, and Qatar stationed at the base. Regarding the measures taken by Turkey to strengthen the security of Turkish Cyprus, Aktrk explained that the security of Turkish Cyprus and the maintenance of peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean are of strategic importance to Turkey, and that Ankara’s position on this matter is “clear and unwavering.”

He added: “Following the missile and drone threat stemming from the conflict between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, our air force and air defense systems deployed in Turkish Cyprus aim to enhance deterrence, bolster airspace security, and strengthen our rapid response capabilities against potential threats.” He emphasized that these additional measures taken by Turkey will contribute to the security of the entire island, not just the Turkish Republic of Cyprus.

Regarding the missile attacks launched from Iran against southwestern Turkey, he explained that in light of recent developments, consultation mechanisms with NATO allies have been effectively activated, in addition to measures taken at the national level to ensure the security of Turkish airspace and Turkish citizens. Akturk said: “In this context, the Patriot missile system was deployed in Malatya province. NATO is a security alliance committed to protecting the airspace and territory of its member states.”

He emphasized that “Turkey, with its geostrategic location, strong army, and crucial role on the alliance’s southeastern flank, is one of the most important elements of this entity.” He noted that these steps aim to strengthen the shared security of both Turkey and NATO, in line with their understanding of defense, deterrence, and solidarity among allies.