Turkish Armed Forces C130 Cargo Aircraft Crash (2025)

Turkish Armed Forces C-130 Cargo Aircraft Crash (2025) is a military aviation accident that occurred on 11 November 2025 near the Georgia–Azerbaijanborder. The aircraft involved, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules military cargo plane operated by the Turkish Air Forces, crashed approximately 5 kilometers from the Azerbaijani border in the Signagi area of Georgia’s Kakheti region. As a result of the crash, 20 Turkish Armed Forces personnel, including the flight crew, were killed.

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) stated in its initial announcement that “A C-130 military cargo aircraft of ours, en route from Azerbaijan to our country, has crashed near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border.”

The aircraft was reported to have lost radar contact shortly after takeoff from Ganja, Azerbaijan, on its return flight to Türkiye. According to the Georgian Civil Aviation Administration, the aircraft lost radar contact a few minutes after entering Georgian airspace, and “no emergency signal was transmitted by the aircraft.”

The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that “the Turkish Air Forces military transport aircraft crashed in the Signagi region, approximately 5 kilometers from the Azerbaijani border, and an investigation into the accident has been launched.”

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, during a speech at the “City and Place in Our Civilization” Urbanism Summit held on the same day, stated: “We learned with deep sorrow that our C-130 military aircraft, en route from Azerbaijan to our country, crashed near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. We are continuing our efforts in coordination with the relevant authorities. May God grant us the strength to overcome this tragedy with minimal hardship. May God have mercy on our martyrs and, with our prayers, may we stand beside them.”

^{Düşen kargo uçağının radar görüntüsü, 11 Kasım 2025 - (}Flightradar24⁾

Georgian search and rescue teams announced on 11 November that they reached the aircraft wreckage at 17:00. The Ministry of National Defense stated: “Georgian search and rescue teams reached the wreckage at 17:00. The wreckage has been secured for examination by our crash investigation teams.”

The Ministry emphasized that search operations were being conducted in coordination with Georgian authorities, adding: “Our rapid-response crash investigation and search and rescue team dispatched to the region is continuing its operations in coordination with Georgian authorities regarding our C-130 military cargo aircraft that crashed in Georgia.”

Despite darkness setting in on the night of 11 November, units under the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs and Turkish search and rescue teams continued their operations. Three helicopters, ambulances, and fire trucks were deployed to the site.

Teams from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs conducted operations in a mountainous area belonging to the Signagi Municipality. Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Gela Geladze personally participated in the search and rescue efforts. Numerous units under the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs established a wide security perimeter and directed ambulances and fire trucks to the area. Additionally, military personnel from the Georgian Armed Forces provided support to the operations.

In a statement on 12 November 2025, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said: “We received confirmation that the wreckage had been reached by 17:00 on the same day. The area where the wreckage was located has been cordoned off for security reasons. Last night, we successfully deployed our 46-member crash investigation team to the site.”

Presidential Communications Director Burhanettin Duran stated regarding the ongoing operations: “Search and rescue and crash investigation teams continue their efforts concerning our aircraft that crashed near the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. The remains of our honored martyrs will be brought back to Türkiye aboard our A-400M aircraft, which transported the search and rescue and crash investigation team to Georgia. We thank the Georgian authorities for their swift response and full support from the very first moment. Further developments regarding this matter will continue to be shared.”

Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Gela Geladze stated: “We have established an international investigation team, which includes Turkish officials. They worked at the site throughout the night and actively participated in the investigation process. The investigation is being conducted in coordination with Türkiye.”

The C-130 military cargo aircraft crash has been regarded by both the Turkish Armed Forces and international aviation circles as “exceptional” and “abnormal.” While the official investigation is ongoing, initial technical data and expert analyses suggest the accident may have resulted from a “catastrophic event” occurring over a very short period.

The aircraft, a 57-year-old model purchased from Saudi Arabia in 2012, was modernized in 2022 and integrated into the Turkish Air Forces fleet. Its last maintenance was conducted one month prior to the crash. The final radio contact occurred approximately 40 minutes before the crash, with no emergency call issued. The flight was organized to transport F-16 maintenance personnel and equipment from Azerbaijan, where they had participated in Victory Day celebrations, back to Türkiye.

Videos posted on social media showing the moment of the crash indicate that the aircraft disintegrated mid-air before crashing. This suggests that the front section detached ahead of the wings and the rear section detached behind, while the main fuselage remained relatively intact upon impact.

Former Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot Scott Bateman noted that the nature of the accident involved “an exceptional structural failure,” and that such separations are extremely rare. Evaluating claims of an explosion, Bateman stated: “Typically, an explosion would cause the aircraft to disintegrate from the center. However, here the front and rear fuselage sections separated while the central portion remained relatively intact.”^【1】

Aviation expert Daniel Gustafsson highlighted the absence of any emergency communication via transponder or radio, emphasizing that the incident began as a “sudden” event. Gustafsson stated: “In such incidents, sometimes a structural break occurs, followed by the separation of other components during descent. However, the initial trigger of this chain of events remains unclear.”^【2】

Following the crash, the Turkish Armed Forces temporarily grounded all C-130 aircraft in its inventory.

The accident coincides with a period during which Türkiye planned to acquire 12 British-made C-130J aircraft in 2025.

On 12 November 2025, during a meeting of the AK Party Extended Provincial Chairpersons, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced that the aircraft’s flight data recorder had been located. Erdoğan stated: “We received confirmation that the wreckage had been reached by 17:00 on the same day. The area where the wreckage was located has been cordoned off for security reasons. Last night, we successfully deployed our 46-member crash investigation team to the site. The black box of our aircraft has been found and examinations have begun. We have located the remains of 19 of our martyrs. Our search operations continue for the final remains.” The aircraft’s flight data recorder (FDR) and cockpit voice recorder (CVR) were transported to Ankara for analysis. The definitive cause of the crash will be shared with the public once the investigations are complete.

On 13 November 2025, the Ministry of National Defense announced to the public that the final martyr’s remains had also been recovered from the wreckage. The Ministry’s statement read: “As a result of search operations conducted at the wreckage site of our military cargo aircraft that crashed near the Azerbaijan-Georgia border, we have located the remains of our 20th martyr. May God grant mercy to our honored martyrs, and patience and strength to their grieving families and our noble nation.”

On 11 November 2025, the Ministry of National Defense released the identities of the personnel killed aboard the military cargo aircraft that crashed near the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. Each martyr’s family was notified of the news by military officials accompanied by medical personnel. Following the announcement, Turkish flags were raised above the martyrs’ homes and condolence tents were erected.

Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, in his condolence message, stated: “Our heroic comrades lost their lives on 11 November 2025 when our C-130 military cargo aircraft, en route from Azerbaijan to our country, crashed near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. On behalf of myself and all personnel of the Ministry of National Defense, I offer God’s mercy to our heroic martyrs, and patience and strength to their grieving families and our noble nation.”

The list of martyred personnel released by the MND:

1. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Gökhan Korkmaz
2. Air Force Major Serdar Uslu
3. Air Force Major Nihat İlgen
4. Air Force First Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir
5. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance First Lieutenant Emre Mercan
6. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Master Sergeant Nuri Özcan
7. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce
8. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Hamdi Armağan Kaplan
9. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Burak Özkan
10. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant İlker Aykut
11. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Akın Karakuş
12. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Emrah Kuran
13. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Ramazan Yağız
14. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant Emre Altıok
15. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant Berkay Karaca
16. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant Burak İbbiği
17. Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant İlhan Ongan
18. Air Force Logistics Senior Sergeant Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu
19. Air Force Transportation Specialist Sergeant Cem Dolapci
20. Air Force Transportation Specialist Sergeant Emre Sayın

^{Şehit olan askerlerin kimlik bilgileri - (Milli Savunma Bakanlığı)}

On 12 November 2025, during a meeting of the AK Party Extended Provincial Chairpersons, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan shared details regarding the circumstances of the crash, stating: “First and foremost, may our nation’s head remain strong. Yesterday, we received a deeply sorrowful message that saddened all 86 million of us. Our C-130 military cargo aircraft, carrying our unit from Azerbaijan where they participated in the 5th anniversary celebrations of the Karabakh Victory, crashed near the Signagi region close to the Georgia-Azerbaijan border shortly after takeoff. Unfortunately, we have lost 20 sons of our homeland in this incident.”

Erdoğan, individually honoring each martyr, said: “From our flight crew, I remember with reverence Lieutenant Colonel Gökhan Korkmaz, Major Nihat İlgen, Major Serdar Uslu, First Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir, Senior Master Sergeant Nuri Özcan, Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce, Master Sergeant Emrah Kuran, Master Sergeant Burak Özkan, Senior Sergeant Emre Altıok, Senior Sergeant Burak İbbiği; from the passenger crew, First Lieutenant Emre Mercan, Master Sergeant Ramazan Yağız, Master Sergeant Hamdi Armağan Kaplan, Master Sergeant İlker Aykut, Master Sergeant Akın Karakuş, Senior Sergeant Berkay Karaca, Senior Sergeant İlhan Ongan, Senior Sergeant Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu, Specialist Sergeant Cem Dolapci, and Specialist Sergeant Emre Sayın.” He continued: “May Almighty God elevate the resting places of our martyrs to paradise and their ranks to the highest. It is, of course, impossible to describe the fire in our hearts. We hold back our tears and bury our grief within our hearts. But we also know this: to give one’s life for the security of one’s homeland, nation, and state is unquestionably the greatest and most honorable sacrifice. The brave martyrs who fell yesterday have attained the highest rank after prophethood—the rank of martyrdom. We owe our martyrs a debt of gratitude that our 86 million people can never fully repay. I offer patience and strength to every citizen of our nation, to the grieving families of our honored martyrs, and to the Turkish Armed Forces.”

President Erdoğan noted that following the crash, he contacted Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of the Interior Ali Yerlikaya, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, confirming that search and rescue operations were rapidly initiated. He stated that unmanned aerial vehicles were being used in coordination with Georgian authorities and that the wreckage had been reached by 17:00.

Erdoğan shared further details of the operations, saying: “The area where the wreckage was located has been cordoned off for security reasons. Last night, we successfully deployed our 46-member crash investigation team to the site.” He added: “The black box of our aircraft has been found and examinations have begun. We have located the remains of 19 of our martyrs. Our search operations continue for the final remains. During this period, we also spoke by phone with President Aliyev of Azerbaijan and then with Prime Minister Kobakhidze of Georgia.”

President Erdoğan affirmed that the Republic of Türkiye is taking all necessary steps to fully clarify the circumstances of the crash, stating: “The Georgian authorities have shown the highest level of cooperation and facilitation during this process. Our Azerbaijani brothers are also providing all necessary support and contributions. Let our nation be assured: alongside the Republic of Türkiye, all resources of Georgia and Azerbaijan have been mobilized for our heroes. We are closely monitoring the operations on the ground. We will ensure that all necessary investigations are conducted with the utmost care to fully illuminate every aspect of this incident.”

On 11 November, Minister of the Interior Ali Yerlikaya held a phone call with Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Gela Geladze. In a social media post, Yerlikaya expressed “deep sorrow” over the crash of the MND’s C-130 military cargo aircraften route from Azerbaijan to Türkiye near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. He confirmed that search and rescue operations were ongoing and conveyed that his Georgian counterpart had visited the site and extended condolences to the Turkish nation.

Communications Director Burhanettin Duran, in a social media post, stated: “Immediately following the crash of the military cargo aircraft near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border this afternoon, search and rescue operations were swiftly initiated. It is essential that the public receives accurate information and that unverified reports are not disseminated. We respectfully inform the public.” In a second social media statement, Duran added: “Our President has been receiving real-time updates on search and rescue efforts from the very first moment and is closely monitoring the operations. Our President has also held discussions with counterparts in Georgia and Azerbaijan. Our search and rescue teams have reached the wreckage of our aircraft, and necessary security measures have been taken. The teams are continuing their work with great precision. Investigations into the cause of the crash will be conducted with the utmost rigor.”

TBMM Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş, in a social media post regarding the crash, stated: “I learned with great sorrow that our military cargo aircraft, belonging to the Ministry of National Defense, which was returning from Azerbaijan, crashed in Georgia. We are closely monitoring the ongoing search and rescue operations. May God grant mercy to our martyrs and patience to their families and loved ones. May our noble nation remain strong.”

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz announced his phone conversation with Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov as follows: “Prime Minister Ali Asadov of Azerbaijan contacted us to express solidarity and condolences regarding our military cargo aircraft that crashed within Georgia’s borders while returning from Azerbaijan. During our conversation, he emphasized that brotherly Azerbaijan is closely following the situation with strong solidarity. I thank Prime Minister Asadov for the condolences and sincere solidarity expressed on behalf of the Azerbaijani people.”

Minister Fidan, in a social media post, stated that his ministry is closely monitoring search and rescue operations in coordination with Georgian authorities and added: “May God grant mercy to our martyrs and patience to their families and loved ones.” He also held a phone call with Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili.

Turkish Armed Forces C-130 Cargo Aircraft Crash (2025) is a military aviation accident that occurred on 11 November 2025 on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border. In the incident, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules military cargo aircraft belonging to the Turkish Air Force, returning from Azerbaijan to Türkiye, crashed near Signagi in Georgia’s Kakheti region, approximately 5 kilometers from the Azerbaijani border. As a result of the crash, 20 Turkish Armed Forces personnel, including the flight crew, were martyred.

In its initial statement in the early hours of the incident, the Ministry of National Defense (MSB) announced: “A C130 military cargo aircraft of ours, which took off from Azerbaijan to come to our country, has crashed on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border.”

It was reported that shortly after taking off from the city of Ganja in Azerbaijan for its return to Türkiye, the aircraft lost radar contact in Georgian airspace. According to the Georgian Air Navigation Administration, the aircraft lost radar contact a few minutes after entering Georgian airspace, and it was also stated that “the aircraft did not transmit any emergency signal.”

The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs announced that “a military transport aircraft belonging to the Turkish Air Force crashed in the Signagi region, 5 kilometers from the Azerbaijani border, and an investigation into the accident has been launched.”

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in a statement made during the “City and Space in Our Civilization” themed Urbanism Summit held on the same day, said: “Today, with deep sorrow, we learned that our C130-type military aircraft coming from Azerbaijan to our country crashed on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border. Our efforts are continuing in coordination with the relevant authorities of the country. God willing, we will overcome this accident with the least possible loss. May Allah have mercy on our martyrs, and with our prayers, may we stand by them.”

Georgian search and rescue teams announced that they reached the wreckage of the aircraft at 17:00 on 11 November. In a statement issued by the Ministry of National Defense, it was noted: “Georgian search and rescue teams reached the wreckage of the aircraft at 17:00. The wreckage has been secured for examination by our crash investigation teams.”

The Ministry stated that the search activities were carried out in coordination with Georgian authorities, adding: “For our C-130 military cargo aircraft that crashed in Georgia, our crash investigation and search and rescue team that rapidly deployed to the region continues its work at the scene in coordination with Georgian authorities.”

Despite nightfall on 11 November, units of the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs and Turkish search and rescue teams continued their operations in the area. Three helicopters, ambulances, and fire trucks also took part in the activities at the crash site.

Teams dispatched from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs conducted operations in a mountainous area belonging to Signagi Municipality. Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Gela Geladze also personally participated in the search and rescue activities. Numerous teams affiliated with the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs established a wide security perimeter; ambulances and fire trucks were directed to the area. Additionally, military personnel from the Georgian armed forces supported the operations.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated on 12 November 2025: “We received information that the wreckage of the aircraft was reached at 17:00 the same evening. The area where the aircraft wreckage was found was cordoned off for security purposes. Again, last night, we ensured the deployment of our 46-person crash investigation team to the region.”

Presidential Communications Director Burhanettin Duran issued the following statement regarding the ongoing efforts: “Search and rescue and crash investigation teams continue their work concerning our aircraft that crashed on the Azerbaijan–Georgia border. The remains of our esteemed martyrs will be brought to our country on our A-400M aircraft, which transported our search and rescue and crash investigation team to Georgia. We thank the Georgian authorities, who mobilized all their resources from the very first moment of the wreckage search efforts, reacted swiftly, and provided us with support. Further updates on the matter will continue to be shared.”

Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Geka Geladze stated: “We have formed an international investigation team. The team includes officials from Türkiye as well. They worked at the scene throughout the night and actively participated in the investigation process. The investigation is being conducted in coordination with Türkiye.”

^{Radar image of the crashed cargo plane, November 11, 2025 - (}Flightradar24⁾

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan announced during the AK Party Extended Provincial Chairs Meeting on 12 November 2025 that the aircraft’s black box had been found. Erdoğan said: “We received information that the wreckage of the aircraft was reached at 17:00 the same evening. The area where the aircraft wreckage was found was cordoned off for security purposes. Again, last night, we ensured the deployment of our 46-person crash investigation team to the region. The black box of our aircraft has been found, and examinations have begun. We have reached the remains of 19 of our martyrs. Search efforts for the final remains are ongoing.”

The aircraft’s black box was brought to Türkiye for examination. On 13 November 2025, the Ministry of National Defense announced that the final martyr’s body had been recovered from the wreckage site. The statement read: “As a result of the search efforts conducted in the wreckage of our military cargo aircraft that crashed on the Azerbaijan–Georgia border, the remains of our 20th martyr have been found. We wish Allah’s mercy upon our esteemed martyrs and extend our condolences and patience to their grieving families and our noble nation.”

On 11 November 2025, the Ministry of National Defense publicly released the identities of the soldiers who were martyred in the military cargo aircraft that crashed on the Azerbaijan–Georgia border. The devastating news was delivered to each martyr’s family by military officials accompanied by healthcare personnel. Following the notifications, Turkish flags were hung on the homes of the martyrs, and condolence tents were established.

Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler said in his condolence message: “Our heroic comrades-in-arms were martyred on 11 November 2025 due to the crash of our C130 military cargo aircraft, which had taken off from Azerbaijan to come to our country, on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border. I wish Allah’s mercy upon our heroic martyrs on behalf of myself and the members of the Ministry of National Defense, and I extend my condolences and patience to their grieving families and our noble nation.”

The list of martyred soldiers shared by the Ministry of National Defense is as follows:

• Air Pilot Lieutenant Colonel Gökhan Korkmaz
• Air Pilot Major Serdar Uslu
• Air Pilot Major Nihat İlgen
• Air Pilot First Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir
• Air Aircraft Maintenance First Lieutenant Emre Mercan
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Senior Master Sergeant Nuri Özcan
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Hamdi Armağan Kaplan
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Burak Özkan
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant İlker Aykut
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Akın Karakuş
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Emrah Kuran
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Master Sergeant Ramazan Yağız
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Staff Sergeant Emre Altıok
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Staff Sergeant Berkay Karaca
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Staff Sergeant Burak İbbiği
• Air Aircraft Maintenance Staff Sergeant İlhan Ongan
• Air Logistics Senior Sergeant Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu
• Air Transport Specialist Sergeant Cem Dolapci
• Air Transport Specialist Sergeant Emre Sayın

^{Identities of the Martyred Soldiers – (Ministry of National Defense)}

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, speaking at the AK Party Extended Provincial Chairs Meeting on 12 November 2025, shared details regarding the cause of the crash, stating: “First of all, may our entire nation be blessed with patience. Yesterday, we received a very painful piece of news that plunged all 86 million of us into sorrow. Our C130-type military cargo aircraft carrying our unit that was in Azerbaijan for the 5th anniversary celebrations of the Karabakh Victory crashed in the Signagi region near the Georgia–Azerbaijan border shortly after taking off to return to our country. In this tragic incident, unfortunately, we lost 20 sons of our homeland.”

Erdoğan commemorated the fallen soldiers one by one, saying: “I respectfully remember with mercy our flight crew—Lieutenant Colonel Gökhan Korkmaz, Major Nihat İlgen, Major Serdar Uslu, First Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir, Senior Master Sergeant Nuri Özcan, Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce, Master Sergeant Emrah Kuran, Master Sergeant Burak Özkan, Staff Sergeant Emre Altıok, Staff Sergeant Burak İbbiği—and our passenger personnel—First Lieutenant Emre Mercan, Master Sergeant Ramazan Yağız, Master Sergeant Hamdi Armağan Kaplan, Master Sergeant İlker Aykut, Master Sergeant Akın Karakuş, Staff Sergeant Berkay Karaca, Staff Sergeant İlhan Ongan, Senior Sergeant Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu, Specialist Sergeant Cem Dolapci, and Specialist Sergeant Emre Sayın—whose names we have inscribed in the most cherished corner of our hearts.”

He continued: “May Allah make the abodes of our martyrs paradise and raise their ranks. It is certainly impossible to describe the fire in our hearts. We swallow our tears and bury our pain in our hearts. But we also know this: giving one’s life for the security of their homeland, nation, and state—whatever the circumstances—undoubtedly represents the greatest and most honorable of sacrifices and acts of bravery. The heroes who were martyred yesterday in the crashed aircraft have reached the rank of martyrdom, the highest rank after prophethood. As a nation, we owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to our martyrs. I extend my condolences and wishes of patience to each of our 86 million citizens, to the grieving families of our esteemed martyrs, and to the Turkish Armed Forces.”

President Erdoğan stated that following the crash, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan contacted their counterparts, and search and rescue operations were initiated rapidly. He explained that unmanned aerial vehicles were used in cooperation with Georgian authorities and that the wreckage was reached at 17:00.

Sharing details of the field efforts, Erdoğan emphasized: “The area where the aircraft wreckage was found has been cordoned off for security purposes. Last night, we ensured the deployment of our 46-person crash investigation team to the region.” President Erdoğan added: “The black box of our aircraft has been found, and examinations have begun. We have reached the remains of 19 of our martyrs. Search efforts for the last remains continue. During this process, we also spoke by phone with President Aliyev of Azerbaijan and then with Georgian Prime Minister Kobakhidze.”

The President noted that the Republic of Türkiye had taken all necessary steps to clarify every aspect of the crash, stating: “Georgian authorities are providing every necessary convenience and cooperation at the highest level during this process. Our Azerbaijani brothers are likewise providing every necessary support and contribution. Let my nation rest assured: together with the Republic of Türkiye, all the resources of Georgia and Azerbaijan have been mobilized for our heroes. The work on the ground is being monitored moment by moment. We will ensure that the necessary investigations are carried out meticulously and that the incident is clarified in all its dimensions.”

On 11 November, Minister of Interior Ali Yerlikaya held a phone call with Georgian Minister of Internal Affairs Geka Geladze. In a statement on social media, Yerlikaya said that he had learned “with deep sorrow” that the C130-type military cargo aircraft belonging to the Ministry of National Defense, flying from Azerbaijan to Türkiye, had crashed on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border. Noting that search and rescue operations were ongoing, Yerlikaya stated that his Georgian counterpart Geladze had gone to the crash site and conveyed his wishes of recovery to the Turkish nation.

Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said in his social media statement: “Following the crash of a military cargo aircraft this afternoon on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border, search and rescue efforts were immediately initiated. For the sake of accurate public information, it is important that only the statements of our official institutions be considered, and that unverified information not be shared. Respectfully announced to the public.”

In a second post, Duran added: “Our President has been receiving instant updates regarding the search and rescue efforts from the very first moment and is closely monitoring the operations. Our President has also held conversations with his counterparts in both Georgia and Azerbaijan. Search and rescue teams have reached the wreckage of our aircraft, and necessary security measures have been taken. The teams are continuing their efforts with great diligence. Investigations regarding the cause of the crash will be carried out meticulously.”

Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş stated on social media regarding the crash of the military cargo aircraft on the Georgia–Azerbaijan border: “I learned with great sorrow that our military cargo aircraft belonging to the Ministry of National Defense, returning to our country from Azerbaijan, crashed in Georgia. We are closely following the ongoing search and rescue operations in the region. I wish Allah’s mercy upon our martyrs and patience to their families and loved ones. May our noble nation be blessed with patience.”

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz stated the following regarding his phone call with Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov: “Prime Minister Ali Asadov of Azerbaijan called us to convey his solidarity and condolences regarding our military cargo aircraft that crashed within Georgian territory while returning to our country from Azerbaijan. During our phone conversation, they expressed that brotherly Azerbaijan has been closely following the process with strong solidarity. I thank Mr. Asadov on behalf of the brotherly Azerbaijani people for the condolences conveyed and the sincere solidarity demonstrated.”

Minister Hakan Fidan stated in a social media post that they were closely monitoring the search and rescue operations together with Georgian authorities, adding: “May Allah have mercy on our martyrs, and may He grant patience to their families and loved ones.” He also held a phone call with Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili.

Following the incident, the Ministry of National Defense, the Air Forces Command, and relevant local authorities informed the families of the martyrs. The news was delivered to the families accompanied by military officials and medical personnel. Temporary condolence tents were erected for each martyr, and Turkish flags were hung in front of their homes.

The family of the martyr in Istanbul was notified. Military officials, accompanied by medical personnel as a precaution, visited his home in Büyükçekmece. The family and close relatives of the martyr were deeply saddened by the news. Turkish flags were hung in front of the residence.

Military officials delivered the tragic news to the martyr’s mother, Fatma Uslu, and father, Ahmet Uslu, who reside in the Yenişehir district of Bursa. A Turkish flag was hung on the balcony of their home. The family in the Kocasinan district of Kayseri was also informed; the Garrison Commander, Colonel Ibrahim Fevzi Büğdüz, and local officials conveyed their condolences. It was reported that the martyr’s wife is seven months pregnant.

Military officials informed the family of the 38-year-old martyr in Sakarya Mahallesi. Medical personnel accompanied them as a precaution. After the notification, a Turkish flag was hung on the balcony of the home, and relatives and neighbors came to offer condolences.

A condolence tent was erected at the father’s home in Ankara’s Yenimahalle district, and Turkish flags were hung in front of the house. The martyr’s father, Adil Kandemir, said: “My son has become a martyr. May our homeland be safe. For this homeland, I too would go and fight and become a martyr. Today they went to take part in the ceremony in Azerbaijan.”

^{The condolence tent established at the family home of Air Pilot First Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir in the Yenimahalle district,12 November 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

The news of the martyrdom was delivered to his father, Halil İbrahim, and mother, Ayşe Mercan, who live in the Emek Mahallesi district of Eskişehir. A Turkish flag was hung on the balcony of the home, and a condolence tent was erected by the municipality. It was learned that Mercan married last year and has three siblings.

The news of the martyrdom was conveyed to his wife, Fatma Özcan, who lives in Kayseri, and to his parents, who reside in Karabük. Turkish flags were hung in front of their homes. The 78-year-old father, Mehmet Özcan, told journalists: “My greatest comfort is being the father of a martyr.”

A condolence tent was erected in front of the home in Cumara Mahallesi, Zübeyde Hanım Bulvarı, Amasya. Amasya Governor Önder Bakan and military officials visited the family. It was learned that the martyr was married and a father of two children.

The tragic news was delivered to the family in Muratlı, Tekirdağ. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke by phone with the martyr’s father, Ünal Aykut, and offered condolences. Erdoğan said: “May Allah grant you patience. They are among the martyrs, neighbors to our Prophet. May Allah be our helper and protector, and may their place be Paradise, God willing.” Father Ünal Aykut said: “May our homeland be safe. May Allah be pleased with everyone.”

^{The news of Chief Warrant Officer Aykut's martyrdom is delivered to his family in Tekirdağ, 12 November 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Military officials visited the home of the martyr in Ekinanbarı Mahallesi, Muğla, and informed his father, Osman, and mother, Huriye Kuran. A Turkish flag was hung in front of the house and a condolence tent was erected. It was learned that the martyr was married and a father of three children.

A condolence tent was erected in front of the father’s home in Küçükbalıklı Mahallesi, Osmangazi district of Bursa. The martyr’s mother, Ayşe Yağız, and sister, Fidan Yağız, received condolences.

A Turkish flag was hung in front of the home in Tekkeköy district of Samsun. District Governor Enver Hakan Zengince and Mayor Mustafa Candal visited the family. It was stated that the martyr is a father of one child.

^{The news of the martyrdom of Chief Warrant Officer Emre Altıok is delivered to his family in Samsun, 12 November 2025 – (Anadolu Ajansı)}

The news of the martyrdom was delivered to the family in Lüleburgaz district of Kırklareli. His father, Nedim, and mother, Nurdan Karaca, were informed, and a Turkish flag was hung in front of the house. Father Karaca said: “I am burying my son instead of attending his wedding. My son told his mother, ‘Mother, I will become a martyr, and you will say “May our homeland be safe” and stand tall.’”

The family home in Yaydiğin village, Çorum, was visited. Officials delivered the tragic news to his father, Rüştü, mother, Yurdagül, and brother, Bülent İbbiği. Turkish flags were hung in front of the house and a condolence tent was erected.

The family in Cumhuriyet Mahallesi, Bilecik, was informed. Bilecik Governor Faik Oktay Sözer and Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Colonel Ali Vanlı visited the family. Father Ali Ongan said: “My son said, ‘There is fog, the plane cannot take off. We are waiting.’ I replied, ‘Alright son.’ After that, I received no more news.” It was also reported that he added: “Being a martyr was his fate. My son became a martyr. What else could there be? May our homeland be safe.”

Military officials visited the father’s home in Olcay Sokak, Dumlupınar Mahallesi, Konya, and informed his father, İbrahim, and mother, Fadime Kuyucu. It was stated that he was married and serving in Amasya.

The tragic news was delivered to his mother, Keziban, and father, Adem Sayın, who live in Kuva-i Milliye Mahallesi, Karesi district of Balıkesir. It was reported that the martyr’s wife, Zeliha Sayın, is in Merzifon district of Amasya. A Turkish flag was hung in front of the house.

Following the crash of a Turkish Air Forces C-130 military cargo aircraft on the Azerbaijan-Georgia border, numerous countries, international organizations, and diplomatic missions have sent condolences to Türkiye.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev called President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan by phone to convey his condolences regarding the military aircraft crash. Aliyev stated in his message: “We were deeply shaken by the news that a Turkish Air Forces military cargo aircraft, which had taken off from Ganja, crashed on Georgian territory, resulting in the loss of soldiers’ lives. During this difficult time, we share your grief and extend our deepest condolences on behalf of the Azerbaijani people to you, the families of those who lost their lives, and our brotherly Turkish people.” Azerbaijani Defense Minister General Zakir Hasanov also sent a message to Defense Minister Yaşar Güler expressing his condolences.

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on the social media platform X: “We extend our most sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to Türkiye for the soldiers who lost their lives in the crash of a military cargo aircraft in the Kakheti region. We stand in solidarity with the Turkish government and people and offer our full support.”

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated on the social media platform X: “We honor the service of those who lost their lives and are profoundly grateful for everything the Turkish Armed Forces and all our uniformed personnel across the Alliance do every day to keep us safe.”

Rutte conveyed his condolences to the families of those who died in the crash and to the allied nation of Türkiye. NATO Military Committee Chairman Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone said in his message: “While we await further information, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the crew, their colleagues, and the brave rescue teams at the crash site.”

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus President Tufan Erhürman: “I learned with great sorrow that a Turkish military cargo aircraft, en route from Azerbaijan to Türkiye, crashed near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. May God grant mercy to the martyrs, and may I offer condolences and patience to their families, loved ones, and the entire Turkish people.”

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Prime Minister Ünal Üstel, in his condolence message, stated: “We have learned with deep sorrow of the pain suffered by our brothers who lost their lives in the military cargo aircraft crash on the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. As the Turkish Cypriot people, we offer God’s mercy to the heroic soldiers who lost their lives in this tragedy, condolences to their grieving families, the Turkish Armed Forces, and the people of the Motherland Türkiye, and we pray for the swift recovery of our injured.”

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Foreign Minister Tahsin Ertuğruloğlu, in a written statement, noted that the news of the Turkish Air Forces military cargo aircraft crashing in Georgia while returning from Azerbaijan had deeply saddened the Turkish Cypriot people.

Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in his message, expressed his deep sorrow over the news that a Turkish Air Forces military cargo aircraft had crashed, resulting in the loss of many lives, and conveyed his “most sincere” condolences to President Erdoğan and the Turkish people.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy Antonio Tajani shared the message: “I learned with great sorrow of the crash of a Turkish C-130 military cargo aircraft over Georgian territory while en route from Azerbaijan to Türkiye. I express my solidarity with the Turkish people, authorities, armed forces, and all rescue teams at the scene, and I offer condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.”

French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a written message: “As search and rescue operations continue, our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives. France stands in solidarity with Türkiye in the face of this tragic accident.”

Jordan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “May God grant mercy to those who lost their lives due to the crash of the Turkish Armed Forces military cargo aircraft, and may we offer condolences and patience to the government and people of brotherly Türkiye.”

Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif said: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to my dear brother President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the families of those involved in the crash, and all our Turkish brothers.”

Afghanistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the government and people of brotherly Türkiye, as well as to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash.”

Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani offered condolences for the soldiers who lost their lives in the military cargo aircraft. A written statement from the Qatari Emiri Diwan stated: “His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, sent a message of condolences to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of Türkiye and the Turkish Ministry of National Defense following the crash of the Turkish military cargo aircraft.”

Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “Estonia extends its deepest condolences to Türkiye following the crash of the Turkish military cargo aircraft on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border.”

Lithuanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic crash of the Turkish military cargo aircraft on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. We stand in solidarity with our ally Türkiye during this difficult time.”

Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic crash of the Turkish military aircraft near the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. We stand beside our Turkish friends during this difficult time.”

President of Kosovo Vjosa Osmani stated: “Kosovo stands with our ally Türkiye during this difficult time.” Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a message: “We stand in solidarity with Türkiye and its people, and offer condolences to the families of the martyred soldiers.”

Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated: “We offer condolences to the Turkish government and people, and extend patience and resilience to the families of those who lost their lives.”

U.S. Ambassador to Ankara and Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack expressed deep sorrow over the crash of the Turkish Armed Forces aircraft, stating: “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the Turkish Armed Forces, and the Turkish people. The United States stands in solidarity with our ally Türkiye.”

The Embassy of Japan in Ankara reported that it learned with deep sorrow of the crash of the Turkish Armed Forces cargo aircraft while returning from Azerbaijan to Türkiye over Georgian territory, adding: “Japan stands in solidarity with Türkiye in the face of this tragic incident.”

French Ambassador to Ankara Isabelle Dumont said: “I learned with great sorrow of the announcement regarding the crash of a Turkish military aircraft between Georgia and Azerbaijan. My condolences go to the families of those who lost their lives. I stand in solidarity with Türkiye in the face of this tragedy.”

In a message from the Russian Embassy in Ankara, it was noted that the news of Turkish soldiers being martyred was received with deep sorrow, stating: “May God grant mercy to the martyrs and offer condolences and patience to their families and our dear Turkish nation.”

The Dutch Embassy in Ankara emphasized deep sorrow over the crash, stating: “We extend our condolences and sympathies to the families and colleagues of those who lost their lives.”

The Greek Embassy in Ankara also conveyed its sincere condolences regarding the crash of the Turkish aircraft and the resulting loss of life.

German Ambassador to Ankara Sibylle Katharina Sorg said: “I just learned with great sorrow that a Turkish military aircraft crashed tragically in Georgia. The young soldiers were returning from Azerbaijan. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers.”

Ukrainian Ambassador to Ankara Nariman Celal stated: “May Türkiye’s head remain strong! May God grant mercy to those martyred in this tragedy, and may I offer heartfelt condolences and patience to their grieving families and our Turkish brothers. Your pain is our pain.”

The European Union Delegation to Türkiye expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash of the Turkish Armed Forces cargo aircraft and conveyed its most heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen military personnel and the entire Turkish people.

The Embassy of Poland in Ankara recorded its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, the Turkish Armed Forces, Turkish authorities, and the Turkish nation, affirming its solidarity and support during this difficult time.

The Embassy of Kosovo in Ankara expressed deep sorrow over the crash, stating: “We extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, the Turkish Armed Forces, and the people of the Republic of Türkiye. During these difficult days, the Republic of Kosovo stands with Türkiye.”

The Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Ankara, Mirsada Colakovic, expressed deep sorrow over the aircraft crash and conveyed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

The Ambassador of Pakistan to Ankara, Yusuf Cüneyd, expressed sorrow over the crash, extended condolences to the affected families, and affirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with its Turkish brothers during this difficult time.

The Embassy of İran in Ankara stated it received the incident with deep sorrow, adding: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to our friendly and brotherly country, the Republic of Türkiye. We pray to the Almighty for mercy for the deceased and patience and resilience for those left behind.”

The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) also expressed deep sorrow over the aircraft crash and noted that search and rescue operations are ongoing, stating: “We offer our most heartfelt prayers for the souls of the martyrs and extend condolences to their families, loved ones, and our brotherly Turkish people.”

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Ankara, Reşad Memmedov, said: “The news that the C-130 type military aircraft belonging to our brother Türkiye crashed has deeply saddened us. We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives in the crash, their grieving families, loved ones, and our brotherly Turkish people.”

The Embassy of China in Ankara stated it received with deep sorrow the news that a Turkish Armed Forces military cargo aircraft crashed on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border, adding: “We offer condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the Turkish people. We wish for the search and rescue operations to yield positive results as soon as possible.”

The Embassy of Ireland in Ankara shared the message: “We learned with deep sorrow of the crash of the Turkish Air Forces aircraft in Georgia. We offer condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to Türkiye.”

The Embassy of Norway in Ankara stated: “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the Turkish Armed Forces personnel and to the Turkish people who lost their lives in the tragic aircraft crash in Georgia yesterday.”

Canadian Ambassador to Ankara Kevin Hamilton said: “We were deeply saddened by the loss of life in the Turkish Air Forces transport aircraft crash in Georgia today. Our thoughts are with those who lost their lives and their families. We share the grief of the Turkish people.”

Danish Ambassador to Ankara Ole Toft said: “I am deeply saddened by the crash of the Turkish military cargo aircraft in Georgia and the resulting loss of life. I offer my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and to the Turkish people.”

Australian Ambassador to Ankara Sally-Anne Vincent said: “We were deeply saddened by the Turkish military cargo aircraft crash on 11 November 2025. We convey our condolences and sympathies to the families of the crew and to the Turkish people during this difficult time.”

Members of the Presidential Cabinet have posted condolence messages on their social media accounts for the soldiers martyred in the military cargo aircraft crash on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border.

Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç stated in his message: “I am deeply saddened by the crash of a military cargo aircraft, which had taken off from Azerbaijan to return to Türkiye, on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. May God grant mercy to our martyrs and patience to their families and loved ones. May the head of our beloved nation remain strong.”

Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, in her statement, said: “We are closely monitoring the situation of our Ministry of National Defense military cargo aircraft, which took off from Azerbaijan to Türkiye and crashed in Georgia. May God grant mercy to our martyrs and patience to their families. May the head of our beloved nation remain strong.”

Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan said: “I offer God’s mercy to our heroic Mehmetçiks who lost their lives as a result of the crash of our Ministry of National Defense military cargo aircraft while returning from Azerbaijan. I pray for patience for their precious families and loved ones. Our prayers are always with our Mehmetçiks. May the head of our beloved nation remain strong.”

Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Murat Kurum said: “I learned with great sorrow of the crash of the Turkish Air Forces military cargo aircraft. May God grant mercy to our martyrs, patience to their families and loved ones, and strength to our nation.”

Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar shared the message: “May God grant mercy to our martyred soldiers and offer condolences to their families. May the head of our beloved nation remain strong.”

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, in his statement, said: “I learned with deep sorrow that our military cargo aircraft, en route from Azerbaijan to Türkiye, crashed on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. May God grant mercy to our martyred soldiers, patience to their families and loved ones. May the head of our nation remain strong.”

Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin expressed deep sorrow over the news of the crash of the Ministry of National Defense military cargo aircraft on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border and wished for search and rescue operations to yield positive results as soon as possible, and for our heroic Mehmetçiks to be found safe and sound.

Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu, in his statement, said: “We are closely monitoring developments regarding the incident and extend our condolences to our beloved nation. May God grant mercy to our martyrs and patience to their families and loved ones.”

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı said: “I learned with great sorrow that our Ministry of National Defense military cargo aircraft has crashed. We are closely following developments regarding the incident through our relevant institutions. May our Lord grant mercy to our heroic martyrs and patience to their families. May the head of our beloved nation remain strong.”

Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat stated: “I learned with deep sorrow that our C-130 type military transport aircraft belonging to the Ministry of National Defense crashed within Georgia’s borders during its return from Azerbaijan. We are closely monitoring developments regarding the incident through our relevant institutions. May the Almighty grant mercy to our heroic martyrs, patience and resilience to their families, and strength to our beloved nation.”

Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu said: “I learned with great sorrow that our C-130 type military transport aircraft belonging to the Ministry of National Defense, returning from Azerbaijan to Türkiye, has crashed within the borders of Georgia and that we have lost martyrs. We are closely monitoring developments regarding the incident. May God grant mercy to our martyrs and strength to our beloved nation.”

Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, in his message, said: “Our nation has experienced profound grief following the crash of our military cargo aircraft on the Georgia-Azerbaijan border. May God grant mercy to our martyrs, offer condolences to their families, loved ones, and our heroic armed forces. May their resting places be in paradise and their ranks exalted.”

On 11 November 2025, 20 Turkish Armed Forces personnel died in a C130 military cargo aircraft crash near the Azerbaijan-Georgia border. On 14 November 2025, their bodies were formally escorted home in an official military ceremony held at Ankara Mürted Air Base.

^{Şehit olan askerler, Ankara Mürted Hava Üssü’nde düzenlenen resmi askeri törenle memleketlerine uğurlanıyor, 13 Kasım 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

After identification and forensic procedures were completed at the Ankara Forensic Medicine Institution, the martyrs’ remains were transported under military escort to the ceremonial grounds of Mürted Air Base Command. The official protocol of the Turkish Armed Forces was observed during the ceremony.

The ceremony began with a moment of silence and recitation of the Qur’an, followed by a prayer for the martyrs delivered by Deputy President of the Directorate of Religious Affairs Hafız Osman Şahin. After the prayer, the names of the martyrs were read aloud one by one, and their coffins, draped in Turkish flags, were carried onto aircraft by military personnel.

Attendees included the Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye Numan Kurtulmuş, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Family and Social Services Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, the Turkish Armed Forces Command Staff, members of parliament, Ankara Governor Vasip Şahin, Commander of the Azerbaijani Air Forces Major General Namig İslamzade, and Azerbaijani Ambassador to Ankara Reşad Mammadov, along with the families of the martyrs.

The Independence March was recited, military bands played farewell marches during the send-off, and prayers were offered by members of the Turkish Armed Forces and the families of the martyrs.

Following the ceremony at Ankara Mürted Air Base Command, the body of 38-year-old Air Pilot Major Nihat İlgen, draped in a Turkish flag, was flown by Turkish Air Force aircraft to Kayseri. His remains were taken to Kalemkırdı Mosque. After the funeral prayer held after Friday prayers, he was buried at Kayseri Garrison Cemetery.

^{The funeral of Martyr Air Pilot Major Nihat İlgenis being honored in Kayseri, 14 November 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Attendees included the Chairman of the TBMM National Defense Commission Hulusi Akar, Deputy Minister of Health Halim Özçevik, Deputy Minister of Trade Özgür Volkan Ağar, Governor Gökmen Çiçek, AK Party Deputy Chairman Mustafa Elitaş, Saadet Party Chairman Mahmut Arıkan, MHP Deputy Chairman İsmail Özdemir, Kayseri Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Memduh Büyükkılıç, Garrison Commander Brigadier General Hasan Volkan Güleryüz, Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Brigadier General Bilgihan Yeşilyurt, Provincial Police Chief Atanur Aydın, members of parliament, military officials, and numerous citizens.

A funeral ceremony was held for the three martyrs at Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque. The funeral prayer was performed after Friday prayers, after which the coffins were placed on gun carriages amid takbirs. Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce and Aviation Logistics Specialist Sergeant Cem Dolapci were buried at Cebeci Cemetery, while Air Pilot Second Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir was laid to rest at Gölbaşı Ballıkpınarı Cemetery.

^{The funeral ceremony for Lieutenant Cüneyt Kandemir, Senior Master Sergeant Ümit İnce, and Sergeant Cem Dolapci, who were killed in a military cargo plane crash on the Azerbaijan-Georgia border, was held at the Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque in Ankara on November 14, 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)}

Attendees included the families and relatives of the martyrs, as well as Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Numan Kurtulmuş, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, Minister of Treasury and Finance Mehmet Şimşek, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı, MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli, İYİ Party Chairman Müsavat Dervişoğlu, BBP Chairman Mustafa Destici, CHP Deputy Group Leader Murat Emir, Presidential Advisor Turgut Aslan, Chief of the General Staff General Selçuk Bayraktaroğlu, Commanders of the Armed Forces, and numerous state officials.

After receiving blessings at his father’s home in the Selçuklu district, the body of Martyr Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu was taken to the Konya Cemetery. Following the funeral prayer led by Provincial Mufti Ali Öge, he was laid to rest at Konya Cemetery.

^{The funeral of Senior Sergeant Ahmet Yasir Kuyucu, an Air Supply Non-Commissioned Officer, is being laid to rest in Konya, 14 November 2025 - (Anadolu Ajansı)}

During the burial, the Turkish Air Force aerobatic team Turkish Stars performed a tribute flight over the cemetery with two aircraft. Attendees included Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, Konya Governor İbrahim Akın, 3rd Main Jet Base Commander Major General Mete Kuş, members of parliament, political party representatives, and numerous citizens.

The body of Martyr İlker Aykut, draped in a Turkish flag, was received with a military ceremony at Çorlu Atatürk Airport and transported to his father’s home in Muratlı district to receive blessings. Afterward, a funeral ceremony was held at Kırkkepenekli Mahallesi Mosque. Following the prayer led by Provincial Mufti Mustafa Soykök, he was buried at Kırkkepenekli Mahallesi Cemetery. Attendees included Minister of Youth and Sports Osman Aşkın Bak, Tekirdağ Governor Recep Soytürk, members of parliament, mayors, and numerous citizens.

^{Aircraft Maintenance Non-Commissioned Officer Chief Sergeant İlker Aykut is laid to rest in Tekirdağ, 14 November 2025 - (Anadolu Agency)}

The body of Martyr Burak İbbiği was transported from Amasya Merzifon Airport to Yaydiğin village in Çorum. After receiving blessings at his father’s home, the funeral prayer was held at Akşemseddin Mosque, after which he was buried at Çorum Cemetery.

^{Aircraft Maintenance Non-Commissioned Officer Senior Sergeant Burak İbbiği's funeral is being buried at the Çorum Martyrs' Cemetery, 14 November 2025 - (Anadolu Agency)}

Attendees included Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar, Çorum Governor Ali Çalgan, Deputy Minister of National Defense Bilal Durdalı, members of parliament, party leaders, local officials, and citizens. The martyr’s body was placed on a gun carriage under military escort and transported to Çorum Cemetery in a procession.

The body of Martyr Emrah Kuran was transported by military aircraft to Milas Air Base and Garrison Command. His remains were received by the protocol delegation, followed by a moment of silence and recitation of the Qur’an and prayer by Provincial Mufti Rüstem Can.

The martyr’s body was taken by hearse to Ekinanbarı Mahallesi, where a ceremony was held in the courtyard of Ekinanbarı Primary School. Afterward, the coffin was carried by a military honor guard to the cemetery. Following the funeral prayer held after Friday prayers, he was buried at Ekinanbarı Mahallesi Cemetery.

Attendees included Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan, Muğla Governor İdris Akbıyık, AK Party Deputy Chairman Fatma Betül Sayan Kaya, Garrison Commander Rear Admiral Rafet Oktar, Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Aras, and numerous individuals.

The body of Martyr Emre Sayın, draped in a Turkish flag, was taken to Balıkesir Zağnos Paşa Mosque. His family and relatives wept as they embraced the coffin. After the funeral prayer led by Provincial Mufti Hasan Hayri Yaşar, he was buried at Başçeşme Cemetery.

Attendees included Balıkesir Governor İsmail Ustaoğlu, Deputy Minister of Interior Bülent Turan, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Enes Eminoğlu, AK Party and opposition members of parliament, Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ahmet Akın, Provincial Police Chief Şükrü Yaman, and citizens.

A funeral ceremony for Martyr Air Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant Emre Altıok was held outside the Selyeri Mahallesi Mosque in Tekkeköy district of Samsun.

Attendees included Deputy Minister of Industry and Technology Muhammet Kasım Gönüllü, Deputy Minister of Labor and Social Security Adnan Ertem, Samsun Governor Orhan Tavlı, AK Party Members of Parliament Çiğdem Karaaslan, Yusuf Ziya Yılmaz, and Orhan Kırcalı, CHP Samsun Member of Parliament Murat Çan, Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Halit Doğan, Garrison Commander Major General Davut Ala, Provincial Police Chief Ahmet Arıbaş, Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Brigadier General Mustafa Bakçepınar, Black Sea Coast Guard Regional Commander Rear Admiral Ahmet Bahadır, and numerous citizens.

The funeral of 27-year-old Martyr Air Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant Berkay Karaca was held at Çorlu Atatürk Airport, after which his body was transported to his father’s home in 8 Kasım Mahallesi, Lüleburgaz district of Kırklareli. After receiving blessings, a funeral ceremony was held at Lüleburgaz Sokullu Mehmet Paşa Mosque.

Attendees included Minister of National Education Yusuf Tekin, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Deputy Minister of Justice Hurşit Yıldırım, Edirne Governor Yunus Sezer, 55th Mechanized Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Erdal Köse, Kırklareli Mayor Derya Bulut, Lüleburgaz District Governor Kemal Yıldız, Provincial Gendarmerie Commander Senior Colonel Yusuf Eskitürk, Provincial Police Chief Sinan Çamuroğlu, mayors, members of parliament, and citizens.

After the funeral prayer led by Provincial Mufti Yusuf Eviş, the martyr’s body was transported by gun carriage under escort and laid to rest at Lüleburgaz Cemetery.

Following the ceremony at Ankara Mürted Air Base, the body of 39-year-old Air Pilot Major Serdar Uslu, draped in a Turkish flag, was flown by military aircraft to Yenişehir Air Base Command. His remains were taken to Aydınlar Mosque after the reception ceremony.

In the mosque courtyard, his father Ahmet, mother Fatma, and seven-months-pregnant wife Göknur Uslu received condolences. After the funeral prayer held after Friday prayers, he was buried at Yenişehir Cemetery.

Attendees included Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu, AK Party Deputy Chairman Efkan Ala, Bursa Governor Erol Ayyıldız, AK Party and CHP members of parliament, Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, and military officials and numerous citizens.

After the ceremony in Ankara, the body of 54-year-old Air Aircraft Maintenance Senior Master Sergeant Nuri Özcan was transported to Zonguldak Airport and then to Karabük.

After receiving blessings at his father’s home in Şirinevler Mahallesi, his remains were taken to Üniversite Mahallesi Sevgi Pınarı Mosque. Following the funeral prayer held at afternoon prayer time, Özcan was buried at 5000 Evler Cemetery.

Attendees included Minister of Justice Yılmaz Tunç, Karabük Governor Mustafa Yavuz, Zonguldak Governor Osman Hacıbektaşoğlu, Presidential High Advisory Council Member Mehmet Ali Şahin, members of parliament, and citizens.

The martyr’s body was received at Kocaeli Cengiz Topel Airfield, then transported to the Akşemseddin Mosque in Serdivan Yazlık Vatan Mahallesi, Sakarya, where a ceremony was held before burial at Sakarya Cemetery.

Attendees included Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Sakarya Governor Rahmi Doğan, AK Party Deputy Chairman Ali İhsan Yavuz, members of parliament, mayors, military and civilian officials, and numerous citizens.

The body of Martyr Hamdi Armağan Kaplan, draped in a Turkish flag, was flown to Merzifon and then transported by hearse to Gümüşhacıköy Cumhuriyet Meydanı in Amasya. There, his family and relatives wept as they embraced the coffin.

After the funeral prayer held after Friday prayers, he was buried at Gümüşhacıköy Cemetery. Attendees included Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Abdullah Tancan, Deputy Minister of National Education Nazif Yılmaz, Amasya Governor Önder Bakan, AK Party and CHP members of parliament, military personnel, and citizens.

The martyr’s body was transported from Kayseri to Niğde. After the funeral prayer held at Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque, he was buried at Niğde Cemetery.

Attendees included Deputy Minister of National Defense Alpaslan Kavaklıoğlu, Deputy Minister of Justice Mehmet Yılmaz, Niğde Governor Cahit Çelik, CHP Deputy Chairman Erhan Adem, AK Party and MHP members of parliament, and citizens.

The martyr’s body was transported from Eskişehir to Bilecik. After receiving blessings at his father’s home in Cumhuriyet Mahallesi, a ceremony was held at Cumhuriyet Meydanı, followed by the funeral prayer at Osmangazi Mosque, after which he was buried at Bilecik Cemetery.

Attendees included Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ebubekir Gizligider, Bilecik Governor Faik Oktay Sözer, members of parliament, Bilecik Mayor Melek Mızrak Subaşı, and citizens.

After being transported to Yenişehir Air Base Command, the martyr’s body was buried at Çatalsöğüt Mahallesi Cemetery in Harmancık district. Attendees included Minister of Health Kemal Memişoğlu, Bursa Governor Erol Ayyıldız, Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Mustafa Bozbey, members of parliament, and numerous citizens.