Top Naval Leaders Unite: U.S. and Turkish Navy Chiefs Collaborate in Strategic Visit

The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, recently hosted the Turkish Head of Navy, Admiral Ercüment Tatlıoğlu, for an official visit from November 5-8. This visit marked an effort to strengthen naval cooperation between the United States and Türkiye.

Admiral Tatlıoğlu’s itinerary in the U.S. included key stops in Annapolis, Maryland, and Norfolk, Virginia, where he engaged with naval leaders and personnel. His journey aimed to enhance collaborative efforts between the two nations’ naval forces.

“In light of current security challenges and evolving warfare dynamics, collaboration with allies like Türkiye is crucial,” stated Admiral Franchetti. “Together, we can maintain peace and effectively address crises.”

Admiral Tatlıoğlu commenced his visit at the U.S. Naval Academy, engaging with Superintendent Vice Admiral Yvette Davids and experts from the Naval Postgraduate School’s Energy Academic Group.

Further discussions in Washington involved Naval Sea Systems Command leaders. Topics included potential ship maintenance collaboration and coordination for International Fleet Working Group meetings.

A part of the visit included a Navy Full Honors Arrival Ceremony, followed by a luncheon where Admirals Franchetti and Tatlıoğlu advocated for a cooperative approach to modernizing defense capabilities.

“Enhancing Turkish-American naval cooperation is pivotal for regional peace and stability,” emphasized Admiral Tatlıoğlu.

Admiral Franchetti highlighted the strategic importance of the U.S.-Turkish alliance, noting Türkiye’s critical role in regional security.

During their meeting, the Admirals explored Türkiye’s support for U.S. Navy deployment maintenance, underscoring shared commitments to interoperability and elements of the CNO’s Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy.

“Bringing more partners together is essential for readiness,” remarked Admiral Franchetti. “The Turkish Navy has consistently proven to be an effective ally in joint exercises and operations worldwide.”

The visit concluded with the Turkish delegation’s tour of Naval Station Norfolk, where they met Rear Admiral Diana Wolfson and toured the USS Richard McCool (LPD 29) and the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), further solidifying the collaborative spirit between the two navies.