Konya, Türkiye -- Konya, Türkiye – U.S. Air Force Fighting Falcons and Airmen assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing from Aviano Air Base, Italy, joined the Turkish air force and other NATO allies at 3rd Main Jet Base/Konya, Türkiye, for Anatolian Eagle 25. This multinational training, held from June 23 to July 4, 2025, focused on strengthening cohesion and refining combat skills among NATO Allies.
The core of Anatolian Eagle 25 involved realistic, high-end combat scenarios designed to refine tactics, address advanced threats and develop combat-credible forces.
“This training is important to the U.S. because it brings us together with our partners from around the region,” Maj. Andrew Gallion, 510th Fighter Squadron assistant director of operations and 31st Fighter Wing Anatolian Eagle 25 project officer, explained. “It gives our tactical operators an opportunity to practice large force tactics they don’t often get to employ at home station.”
Furthermore, the NATO E-3A AWACS provided crucial support through command and control of the aircraft flying over the training area. By sharpening joint warfighting capabilities, the training enhanced the ability to effectively counter anti-access/area denial threats in contested environments.
“This training is designed to give aircrew maximum freedom to solve problems presented by tactical scenarios,” said Maj. Ekrem ÇEKİN, Turkish air force Anatolian Eagle Training Command squadron commander. “Anatolian Eagle Trainings allow our partners the opportunity to compare and improve capabilities, tactics and procedures in a safe and instructive way through a shared vision and operational synergy.”
Ultimately, Anatolian Eagle 25 highlighted the NATO Alliance and other participating nations’ strength and commitment to stability in a complex global environment. Since its inception in 2001, the Anatolian Eagle program has conducted 55 iterations, involving over 41,000 personnel, 3,300 air platforms, and approximately 27,000 sorties. Türkiye hosted 30 countries this iteration.