Azerbaijan and Türkiye Conduct Flag Ceremony Ahead of “Heydar Aliyev–2026” Joint Military Exercise
Baku, The Gulf Observer: In line with the military cooperation agreement between Azerbaijan and Türkiye, a national flag change ceremony was held as part of preparations for the upcoming joint military exercise “Heydar Aliyev–2026,” scheduled to take place in Kars, Türkiye, Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry said.
A flag platoon departing from the headquarters of the Combined Arms Army began its march from Nakhchivan towards the Sadarak border crossing point at the Umid Bridge over the Araz River. At the same time, a corresponding platoon from Türkiye advanced from Kars toward the designated ceremony venue.
Upon the arrival of both units, the National Anthem of Azerbaijan and Türkiye’s Independence March were performed, followed by the formal flag change ceremony at the Umid Bridge, symbolizing the deepening military partnership between the two countries.
An official event marking the deployment of personnel and military equipment to the training site was also held. Addressing the gathering, Lieutenant General Kanan Seyidov, Commander of the Combined Arms Army, underscored the importance of the joint drills and expressed confidence in the successful participation of all units.
Following the ceremony, the military units assigned to the exercise departed from Nakhchivan for the training area.
According to officials, the “Heydar Aliyev–2026” exercise aims to enhance joint operational planning and execution in line with modern warfare principles, strengthen interoperability between Azerbaijani and Turkish forces, and facilitate the exchange of expertise in comprehensive combat support.
The exercise will also include the execution of combat operations under diverse conditions, as well as specialized tactical tasks designed to improve the operational readiness, knowledge, and skills of participating personnel.
