Turkish UAV Overflies Greek Farmakonisi Island, First in 41 Months

A Turkish unmanned aerial vehicle crossed Greek airspace over Farmakonisi Island in the southeastern Aegean, marking the first such overflight since January 2023. The Hellenic Air Force (GEETA) reported six violations of the Athens FIR and eight breaches of Greece’s national airspace, involving two Turkish UAVs and a CN‑235 maritime patrol aircraft. Greek forces identified and intercepted the aircraft in accordance with international rules.

The incursion coincided with a two‑day visit by Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias, who had inspected military installations on the island the day before. Ankara’s defence ministry reiterated its stance on the Cyprus issue, emphasizing support for Turkish‑Cypriot rights. The episode heightens existing tensions between Greece and Turkey over Aegean sovereignty and military activity.