Statement from the Ministry of National Defense regarding the downed UAV: A warning to two countries!

In the statement issued by the MSB, it was noted that after a UAV approaching Turkish airspace over the Black Sea was detected on December 15, 2025, the relevant units were immediately mobilized. It was stated that because the UAV had a low radar cross-section, and due to its altitude and speed characteristics, the process did not rely on a single sensor data point; instead, it proceeded through a cross-verification process using multiple data sources from radar, electro-optical, electronic warfare, and early warning systems.

CONTROLLED DOWNING WITH F-16S

As a result of the assessments, once it was determined that the UAV was moving out of control, F-16 fighter jets were deployed, and it was emphasized that the UAV was shot down through a controlled intervention at the most appropriate point in accordance with protocols. The MSB announced that this intervention was carried out with high precision to ensure the security of the airspace and to prevent risks related to civil aviation.

It was noted that the downed UAV broke into small pieces in the air and scattered over a wide area. For this reason, it was stated that it is difficult to locate the wreckage in one piece, and that search-and-scan and technical examination activities are being carried out meticulously. The MSB warned that speculative assessments and claims containing disinformation should not be given credence.

The statement indicated that the control of Turkey's airspace is maintained 24/7 through an integrated architecture covering radar, early warning, electronic warfare, and interception elements. The MSB stated that the air defense systems successfully performed their duties and that claims suggesting the system had vulnerabilities do not reflect the truth.

The MSB stated that security risks in the Black Sea have increased due to the Ukraine-Russia war, and in this context, both sides need to be more cautious. The Ministry added that it has conveyed its warnings to the relevant parties.

“ONE STATE, ONE ARMY” PRINCIPLE

The Ministry also stated that it supports the efforts carried out for the restructuring process and the establishment of security by the Syrian Government, emphasizing that Turkey is in close cooperation with the Syrian Government. The MSB also expressed that they are determined to support the “One State, One Army” principle. Turkey announced that it has provided the necessary coordination on this matter and is closely following the process.

WHAT HAPPENED?

In its previous statement, the MSB had reported that an unmanned aerial vehicle determined to have gone out of control in the Black Sea was shot down.

In the statement made by the MSB, it was stated that an air track approaching Turkish airspace over the Black Sea had been detected and taken under surveillance within the scope of routine procedures.

Pointing out that F-16s under NATO and national control were given an alarm reaction mission to ensure the security of the airspace, the statement said, "It was determined that the air track in question was an unmanned aerial vehicle that had gone out of control, and it was shot down in a safe area outside of residential zones to prevent any negative consequences."