"EFES-2026": Azerbaijani delegation takes part in Distinguished Visitors Day PHOTO

A high-level Azerbaijani delegation participated in the Distinguished Visitors Day of the “EFES-2026” multinational joint military exercise held in the Doğanbey training area near İzmir, Türkiye.

During the event, Commander of the Land Forces of the Republic of Türkiye, Army General Metin Tokel, briefed visiting delegations on the overall progress of the exercise, its objectives, and the planned sequence of tactical tasks, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azerbaijan's Ministry of Defence.

He outlined the scope of multinational participation and the integration of various combat and support units in the exercise scenario.

According to Turkish defence officials, “EFES-2026” includes the operational use of several systems being deployed in such exercises for the first time. These include T625 GÖKBEY helicopters, 105 mm BORAN towed howitzers, MEMATT mine-clearing systems, and a range of anti-tank missile systems such as KARAOK, UMTAS, and L-UMTAS, as well as ASLAN SARP UKKS unmanned ground-based reconnaissance and fire support platforms.

The Minister of National Defence of Türkiye, Yaşar Güler, addressed participants during the event, stressing the importance of multinational military exercises in strengthening interoperability and cooperation among allied forces. He extended his best wishes to all participating servicemen.

President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, also welcomed attendees on Distinguished Visitors Day, stating that “EFES-2026” contributes to regional and global peace, security, and stability. His remarks underscored Türkiye’s emphasis on multinational defence collaboration and readiness.

Following the briefings, participating units conducted a series of tactical demonstrations. These included coordinated field operations, live scenario-based manoeuvres, aviation displays, parachute jumps by special operations personnel, and performances by the Mehteran military band. A defence industry exhibition held alongside the exercise showcased a range of military equipment and systems used by participating forces.

Azerbaijani servicemen taking part in the exercise were noted by organisers and observers for their professional conduct and effective performance during the multinational drills.

By Aghakazim Guliyev