Turkey has declared NAVTEX in the area located between the islands of Megisti and Rhodes, just opposite the Kas island.
Turkey’s Navtex has been made due to initiative of gas exploration in the Mediterranean region.
Turkey’s natural gas exploration ship Oruc Reis, is awaited in the the Gulf of Antalya before the shield is created in the region. Two frigates were sent to the Gulf of Antalya to protect Oruç Reis ship. TAF’s corvettes and other frigates are moving to the region between Megisti Island and Rhodes as part of the Navtex announcement.
According to Greek media, the F-16 belonging to Turkey is performing flight about 3,500 meters altitude over the island of Megisti.
The Greek side acted according to the developments and mobilized its ships and aircraft in the NAVTEX declared area between Megisti and Rhodes. As the Greek jets were moving towards the area, the Greek Chief of General Staff interrupted his visit to Cyprus and returned to Athens.
It it uncertain how Greek side will act in case if Oruç Reis starts seismic research in the region.
NAVTEX is a communication device system that provides information to sailors about safety and working areas at sea. The naval forces of the countries announce the information of the training and exercises to be carried out in the sea in a certain area and warns not to enter these fields.
Source: News Agencies
