Turkish Aircraft Interception over the Aegean: Greece Responds to Ankara’s Claims

The Hellenic Ministry of National Defence has responded to Turkey’s allegations regarding the interception of a Turkish naval patrol aircraft (P-72) by Greek F-16 fighter jets over the Aegean Sea.

According to Greek sources, the Turkish aircraft did not submit a flight plan for the Athens FIR, which necessitated identification and monitoring procedures by the Hellenic Air Force to ensure the safety of international air traffic.

“All state aircraft must submit a flight plan before entering the ATHINAI FIR, in accordance with ICAO rules. When this is not done, the Air Force carries out identification procedures of incoming unknown tracks to ensure the smooth and safe operation of international airspace,” the Ministry stated.

Turkey’s claims

The Turkish Ministry of Defence denied that its P-72 aircraft violated the Athens FIR and accused Greece of escalating tensions in the Aegean.

According to Ankara:

• The P-72 flights over international airspace in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean are part of maritime patrols, irregular migration control, and maritime situational awareness.
• Greece reacted with two armed F-16s, attempting to intercept the unarmed Turkish aircraft.
• Turkey considered the interception a harassment endangering the safety of the flight.

Turkish sources emphasized that NATO authorities were informed of the incident, while reaffirming Turkey’s commitment to reconciliation and cooperation in the region.

Chronology of events

The incident occurred shortly after statements by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, marking a return to a tactic last applied thirty months ago.

According to Hellenic National Defence General Staff (GEETHA) on September 1, 2025:

• Three FIR Athens violations were recorded in the Southeastern Aegean (Rhodes – Kastellorizo).
• These involved two armed F-16s, one ATR-72, and one helicopter, which entered without submitting flight plans.
• All Turkish aircraft were identified according to international regulations, following standard Hellenic Air Force procedures.

This incident underscores the critical importance of compliance with international aviation rules and highlights the ongoing tensions in the Aegean region, while Greece maintains its commitment to safe and secure airspace operations.

Source: pagenews.gr