Turkey showcases airpower with striking F‑16 "elephant walk
In one of the Turkish military bases, a fascinating "elephant walk" exercise took place, featuring F-16 fighter jets. Turkey already possesses over 250 of these aircraft and continues to seek additional fighters from the USA.
In the footage shared on social media, a squadron of F-16 fighters is seen taxiing in unison along the runway, a distinctive characteristic of the "elephant walk."
Impressive "elephant walk" of Turkish F-16s
The term "elephant walk" originated during World War II when large fleets of Allied bombers launched attacks in extensive missions, often preceded by the rapid, simultaneous takeoff of all aircraft. Nowadays, "elephant walk" refers to exercises that prepare pilots and their crews for unexpected attacks or the swift withdrawal of aircraft in response to potential enemy strikes.
The F-16 is a multi-role fighter jet produced by Lockheed Martin and is the most widely used combat aircraft globally. It can reach speeds of up to Mach 2 (over 1,900 km/h) and operate at altitudes up to 15,000 metres.
This aircraft's takeoff weight is approximately 17,000 kg, and its armaments can weigh up to 7,000 kg. The F-16 is compatible with a wide array of weaponry, capable of carrying missiles such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, Python-4, AGM-65 Maverick, AGM-88 HARM, or Penguin, as well as bombs like Paveway and JDAM. It also features a standard integrated 20 mm six-barrel cannon.
How many F-16s does Turkey have?
Turkey, regarded as having the third most robust military in the world (after the United States and the United Kingdom), possesses around 260 F-16 fighters. However, the technical condition of some of these aircraft requires modernization. Turkish authorities are negotiating agreements with the United States to address these needs and to acquire additional F-16 fighters and potentially F-35s.
The situation is complex, as Turkey aims to maintain positive relations with NATO and Russia. Although it delayed ratifying Sweden's accession to NATO, the U.S. approved the purchase of several dozen more F-16s and modernization packages for its existing fleet after doing so. Regarding the F-35 fighters, one major obstacle for the United States is Turkey's use of Russian S-300 and S-400 air defence systems.
In addition to negotiations with the USA, Turkey is developing its domestic fighter jet, the KAAN, with the first 20 units expected to be produced by 2028.
