Turkish Military Plane Crash in Georgia Near Azerbaijan Border: 20 Onboard, Casualties Feared
A Turkish Air Force C-130 military transport plane crashed on Tuesday evening in Georgia's Sighnaghi region, near the Azerbaijan border. The aircraft, which was returning to Turkey after completing a routine mission in Azerbaijan, went down under mysterious circumstances, causing a massive explosion and sending thick smoke into the air, visible from nearby villages.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who was notified of the incident during a speech in Ankara, expressed his sorrow over the loss of the personnel on board, referring to them as "martyrs." He stated, "May God rest the souls of our martyrs. We stand with their families in prayer and resolve."
The Turkish Defence Ministry has confirmed the crash and is working with Georgian and Azerbaijani authorities to coordinate search and rescue efforts. Georgian Interior Minister Vakhtang Gomelauri has reportedly traveled to the crash site, accompanied by emergency and defense teams.
A video that has gone viral on Turkish news networks shows the aircraft spiraling out of control and emitting white smoke before crashing into a mountainside, where it burst into flames. Local media have suggested that both Turkish and Azerbaijani military personnel might have been on board, but this has yet to be officially confirmed.
The Georgian Interior Ministry has initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. While early reports point to a potential mechanical failure, foul play has not been dismissed as a possibility.
The C-130 Hercules, employed by the Turkish Armed Forces for various missions, including logistics, troop transport, and humanitarian efforts, is a key asset. The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns amid Turkey's increasing military collaboration in the region, particularly with Azerbaijan.
Rescue teams continue to search the mountainous area for survivors as both countries await an official update on casualties.
