High security on the Van border! Counter-terrorism with concrete walls and technological surveillance

In Van, which has the longest border with neighboring Iran, efforts are underway to prevent illegal migration, stop smuggling activities, and block PKK terrorists from infiltrating the country.

In the region where the concrete wall has been completed along 70 percent of the 295-kilometer border line, work continues on the remaining sections.

Along the border line, where trench digging work continues in parallel with the security wall, the region is monitored by radars and day/night surveillance devices mounted on electro-optical and elevator towers.

The security wall, which is topped with three rows of razor wire, is planned to be completed next year.

In the region where the border is kept under control through the security wall, trench works, and technological investments, border troops operate 24/7 in rugged and uneven terrain at an altitude of 2,500 meters.

Security forces, who carry out patrol and operational activities with new-generation tactical wheeled armored vehicles, detect tunnels, caves, and depots using tunnel/void detection devices.

Border troops, who carry out reconnaissance, surveillance, protection, and attack missions in dangerous and challenging terrain using remote-controlled and autonomous unmanned ground vehicles, drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles, are taking both physical measures in culverts and using camera traps that can transmit instant warnings and images to prevent the passage of terrorists and irregular migrants.

Security is maintained at a high level thanks to sniper teams and commando units, with the border also featuring armored personnel carriers mounted with anti-aircraft guns and turrets capable of active defense against UAV, drone, and paramotor threats using drone jammers.

According to information obtained from security sources, thanks to the efforts of border troops who serve selflessly despite the challenging terrain and climate conditions, and the measures taken, 15,422 irregular migrants were prevented from crossing the border this year, 241 kilograms of narcotics were seized, and 2 members of the PKK terrorist organization were captured.

Members of the press observed the security measures taken on the Turkey-Iran border firsthand as part of a "press tour" program organized by the Ministry of National Defense.

The officer on duty at the border stated that they carry out ambush, patrol, reconnaissance, and surveillance activities along the border line.

Stating that they are fighting against terrorism as well as irregular migration and smuggling incidents, an officer said, "We are performing our duty for the peace and prosperity of our nation on a 24/7 basis."