Allegations of Defense and Drone Support Between Turkey and Saudi Arabia
Reports in the international press claimed that Turkey will provide Saudi Arabia with defense, intelligence, technical support, and drone operators against the Houthis.
According to information reported by international news agency Reuters, it was claimed that Turkey could provide Saudi Arabia with defense, intelligence sharing, technical support, and drone operators against the Houthis. The allegations also include military equipment and reconnaissance activities.
Defense and Intelligence Support
It was claimed that Turkey would provide Saudi Arabia with defense, intelligence, and technical support against the Houthis. Based on information from officials speaking to Reuters, it was stated that this support could encompass reconnaissance activities and efforts related to defense systems.
A Turkish official stated that the support expected from Turkey would be in the form of military equipment, intelligence sharing, and weapon systems, while noting that no other military deployment had taken place within the scope of the alliance so far.
Drone Operators and Logistics
Based on information attributed to a U.S. official, Turkey's support at this stage is planned to be predominantly defensive in nature. Strategic planning and logistics are stated to be part of this plan.
The alleged support package also includes drone operators, efforts to increase the effectiveness of defense systems, as well as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities.
Mecca Agreement and Process
It was reported that the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, reportedly signed by Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia in August, has not yet been approved by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey.
Therefore, it was stated that the support allegedly to be provided will be supplied under the current cooperation for now, and the scope could be expanded following the approval of the agreement.
Statements by Minister Fidan
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated following the extraordinary meeting of the Mecca Agreement held in Riyadh that discussions were held on how to support Saudi Arabia's defense capacity.
Fidan noted that the defense minister and chief of general staff were also with them, expressing that they had very productive evaluations on military, operational, and technical issues.