NATO Deploys Türkiye’s TCG Anadolu to Latvia Under Eastern Sentry Operation

By Bosphorus News Staff

NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum announced the deployment of Türkiye’s amphibious assault ship TCG Anadolu (L-400) to Latvia’s coast as part of Operation Eastern Sentry, reinforcing air surveillance and air defence along the alliance’s eastern flank.

According to NATO, the vessel will operate under NATO Allied Air Command. The deployment forms part of the alliance’s effort to strengthen readiness following repeated airspace incidents attributed to Russia in the Baltic region.

Commissioned in 2023, TCG Anadolu is the largest ship in the Turkish Navy. The vessel is approximately 231 meters long, displaces about 27,000 tons and is designed to operate helicopters and unmanned aerial systems. Originally configured to host short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft, the platform has since been adapted for drone operations.

NATO described the move as a clear signal of allied readiness and collective defence.

The deployment coincides with Exercise Steadfast Dart 26, a NATO rapid response drill involving around 10,000 personnel from multiple member states. The exercise tests the alliance’s ability to deploy and integrate forces across land, air and maritime domains.

Turkish units embarked on TCG Anadolu are participating in amphibious and air support activities in coordination with allied forces.