Operation “Support Türkiye” handover/takeover in Adana

• The AT XXII contingent continues Spain's commitment to contribute to anti-aircraft protection in Türkiye

At Incirlik Air Base (Adana, Türkiye), the 22nd rotation of Operation Türkiye Support (AT) XXII has taken over from the 21st rotation (AT XXI) as part of NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence (NATO IAMD) operation.

During the act of transfer of authority, the head of the A/T XXII contingent, Lieutenant Colonel Pablo Gargallo Payá, highlighted in his speech the pride of being able to continue contributing to the peace and security of a friendly and allied country such as Türkiye and Spain's commitment to the Alliance. ‘This collaboration is built on trust and guided by the understanding that we are part of something bigger than ourselves,’ he stressed. He also encouraged the military of A/T XXII to fulfil their mission: "Today we assume a responsibility that goes far beyond the symbolic act; we represent not only our nation, but also the continuity of a commitment that began more than ten years ago.

The ceremony was presided over by the outgoing force head, Lieutenant Colonel Fernando María García-Repáraz Pardo de Santayana. Besides, the ceremony was attended by military authorities from T¨rkiye, Poland, Hungary and the United States.

The ceremony ended with an emotional ceremony for the fallen in which tribute was paid to those who gave their lives for Spain.

Operation NATO IAMD-Operation “Persistent Effort”.

The Patriot battery, deployed in Türkiye, is part of NATO's Integrated Air and Missile Defence (NATO IAMD) operation, which is part of NATO's ‘Standing Defence Plan, Persistent Effort’. This plan also integrates the UDAA NASAMS in Latvia, the AN/TPS-43M radar of the DAT “Tigru” in Romania and air detachments performing air policing missions.

All in all, Spain's participation in protecting the eastern flank of Allied territory is a sign of Spain's commitment to the Alliance and another example of solidarity with our allies, with whom we share the values that underpin and protect democracy, freedom and global security.