Turkish patrol ship TCG Bandirma conducts joint training with German Navy frigate FGS Brandenburg.

According to a tweet published by the Turkish MoD on July 1, 2024, the Turkish patrol ship TCG Bandirma has participated in joint training exercises with the German Navy frigate FGS Brandenburg. These exercises were conducted under the framework of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission.
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German Navy Brandenburg-class frigate Brandenburg. (Picture source: Turkish MoD)

The naval relationship between Turkey and Germany has historical roots and continues to evolve in the modern military sphere. Historically, the Ottoman-German alliance during World War I laid the groundwork for military cooperation, with German military advisors significantly influencing Ottoman military reforms. This relationship persisted through World War II, despite the complex political dynamics of the era​.

In contemporary times, the Turkish Navy has been actively modernizing and expanding its capabilities, with significant developments including the commissioning of new vessels and the integration of advanced technology. For instance, the recent commissioning of the TCG İstanbul frigate, equipped with Turkish-developed systems such as the ATMACA anti-ship missile and the ADVENT combat management system, highlights Turkey's growing self-reliance in defense technology​.

Germany and Turkey maintain a collaborative stance within NATO, with Turkey being a key player due to its strategic position and significant military contributions. The Turkish Navy’s participation in various NATO exercises, including those that showcase unmanned surface vessels like the MARLIN and Albatros-S, underscores the country's commitment to advanced naval warfare technologies and its integration into broader NATO strategies​​.

Both countries engage in joint military exercises and defense collaborations, which help enhance interoperability and mutual defense capabilities. These activities include annual naval drills in the Eastern Mediterranean, reflecting Turkey's strategic interests in the region and its ongoing efforts to strengthen its maritime security and operational readiness​​.