Turkey Builds Major Air Base in Eastern Libya Near Egyptian Border

Turkey is deepening its military footprint in eastern libya, constructing a major air base near the egyptian border for forces loyal to general khalifa haftar. According to an investigation by the italian news agency nova, turkish construction firms are spearheading the project in the jghabub oasis region, located approximately 23 kilometers from the egyptian frontier.

Satellite imagery from october 24 reveals a newly paved runway measuring 3,600 meters in length, alongside access roads and aircraft parking aprons. At least three parking pads have been completed, with a fourth currently under construction. The scale of the infrastructure will theoretically allow for the operation of heavy military transport aircraft, fighter jets, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The development marks a dramatic shift in ankara policy, moving from adversaries to partners. In 2019 and 2020, turkey militarily backed the tripoli government to repel haftar advance. However, recent months have seen warming ties between ankara and haftar, including a security agreement signed in july.

cairo views these developments with growing apprehension. Egypt fears that the new military installation could alter the regional balance of power and serve as a forward operating base near its western border.