The Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) is preparing to establish 18 Disaster Support Bases nationwide to strengthen its capacity to respond rapidly to natural disasters, officials said.
The initiative, to be implemented in coordination with the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD), is designed to ensure swift and effective intervention during earthquakes, floods, forest fires, and other large-scale natural disasters.
According to officials, the planned bases will be equipped with 9,000-person tent cities, field hospitals, air ambulances, and military vessels capable of providing hospital services. These assets are expected to be deployed immediately after a disaster, supporting search-and-rescue operations as well as emergency medical care.
The bases will be strategically positioned across different regions of Turkey to minimize response times and improve operational reach. By integrating the Turkish Armed Forces’ logistics, personnel, and medical infrastructure with AFAD’s civilian response capacity, authorities aim to establish a coordinated, life-saving rapid response mechanism.
Turkish Armed Forces units will remain on constant alert, ready to respond not only to earthquakes but also to floods, wildfires, and other emergencies. Officials said the new disaster support bases are expected to significantly enhance Turkey’s national disaster management and crisis response capabilities.
