“Mürted,” a name meaning “apostate”. Do you know how this place got such a striking name? Once known as Akıncı Air Base, this location northwest of Ankara has a past steeped in military history and seismic political events. Let’s dive into the story of Mürted.
Mürted Airfield Command initially opened in 1960. Its main purpose was defending Ankara. It quickly became a crucial installation. In 1950, it was among the Turkish military spots allocated to the United States.
The US Air Force established the 7393rd Munitions Support Squadron here in 1965. This unit played a vital logistical role. It supported US forces. Later renamed the 739th MUNSS. The squadron was part of the 39th Wing’s Logistics Group at Incirlik Air Base. This shows Mürted’s significance during the Cold War. Interestingly, the nuclear mission at Akıncı AFB was deactivated on April 25, 1996. This happened after the Cold War ended.
Mürted hosted F-16C/D jet fighters from the 141st, 142nd, and 143rd squadrons. The 143rd squadron named “Öncel” was the first to receive these jets. This squadron played a crucial role in training. It ensured Turkish pilots were ready for modern aerial warfare.
But Mürted’s story took a dramatic turn during the coup attempt of July 2016. Pro-coup soldiers used the air base as a hub. Hulusi Akar, the Turkish Chief of the General Staff was held hostage here. It is alleged that Akıncı AFB was the command center of the coup. Government forces bombed the runway thresholds to stop pro-coup forces from landing or taking off. This act underscored the base’s strategic importance.
Following the failed coup, Akıncı Air Base was redesignated with its former name, Mürted. The government considered turning the facility into a memorial or park. Prime Minister Binali Yıldırım declared that the base nested traitors and would be closed. It would become a place to remember the martyrs.
On September 6, 2016, the Turkish Air Force officially renamed the air base “Mürted”. This name change echoed a historical reference to the desertion of Ottoman troops during the Battle of Ankara in 1402. After the coup attempt, the base’s status was downgraded. Its squadrons were deactivated. The jet fighters were moved to other air bases.
Today, Mürted Airfield Command is used by Turkish Aerospace Industries TAI. TAI is also developing the TAI KAAN here. This advanced fighter jet is designed to be a fifth-generation fighter. It is designed to solidify Turkey’s position in aerospace technology.
From its beginnings as a vital defense point to its role in a pivotal moment in Turkish history. Mürted has transformed into a center for aviation innovation. The story of Mürted is a reminder of Turkey’s evolving role in regional and global security.