The ministry emphasized the importance of caution from both sides, considering the ongoing conflict between them, and the need for a careful approach to issues related to regional security.
The incident occurred on December 15, when Turkish Air Force F-16 fighters shot down a drone that attempted to cross the country's airspace from the Black Sea. According to the Ministry of Defense, the drone was destroyed to ensure safety.
The ministry explained that the unmanned aerial vehicle likely went out of control and was intercepted by F-16 fighters, which shot it down after executing the necessary maneuvers at the optimal moment.
The statement did not specify which country the downed drone belonged to. On December 18, the ministry also noted that the wreckage of the drone was scattered over a large area, making it difficult to determine its origin.
This incident raised questions about the effectiveness of Turkey's air defense and radar control systems. In response to criticism, the Turkish Ministry of Defense assured that airspace control is conducted around the clock using an integrated multi-layered system.
Additionally, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had previously emphasized that Ankara had already sent warnings to Ukraine and Russia regarding attacks on vessels in the Black Sea, which pose a serious threat to shipping safety and do not benefit either side.
