NEPTUNE STRIKE 26-4 scheduled for October 16–21

NATO's NEPTUNE STRIKE 26-4 activity is scheduled for October 16–21 in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean, according to the alliance's exercise calendar.

NATO's description says participants will practise allied striking capabilities involving multiple carrier strike groups and integrate national and NATO forces. The activity spans northern and southern operating areas.

Turkey's Defence Ministry said on October 15 that its group would include the multipurpose amphibious ship TCG Anadolu, frigate TCG Gaziantep and submarine TCG Gür. The Turkish statement names the North Sea, Adriatic and Ionian seas.

The previous three phases of NEPTUNE STRIKE 26 took place in March, April and July. USNI previously described participation by a British carrier group as a possibility.

The Turkish ministry said a media and distinguished visitors day was planned for October 19 aboard TCG Anadolu in the Gulf of Taranto.