The Turkish research ship Piri Reis is sailing in international waters west of the Greek island of Psara on Monday, continuing its surveys in the Aegean Sea despite Greece’s anti-NAVTEX directive. The vessel’s activities follow a Turkish NAVTEX issued for operations from October 4-14.
Greek authorities are monitoring the situation closely, tracking the ship’s route and its 22 designated survey points. Questions remain about whether the Piri Reis will expand its operations in the coming days.
Aegean Survey Area
The Turkish-designated survey zone stretches from Thasos in the north to Chios, Agios Efstratios, Mykonos, Ikaria, and the Fournoi islands, following Chevron’s proposal for hydrocarbon exploration in two offshore blocks south of Crete.
The Hellenic Navy remains on high alert, maintaining close surveillance of the Piri Reis and other maritime movements. Athens is also monitoring statements from Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who over the weekend suggested that there are agreements in the Eastern Mediterranean against Turkey.
Concurrent Turkish Naval Exercises
In addition to the Piri Reis surveys, Turkey has launched a major naval exercise named DenizKurd-I (“Sea Wolf”), which runs through October 10 across the Black Sea, Aegean Sea, and Eastern Mediterranean, involving the entire Turkish fleet.
Greek authorities continue to closely observe both the ship and the military maneuvers, reflecting ongoing tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean over maritime rights and regional security.
