Turkish F-4E Phantoms Poggio Dart 2025: Three Turkish Air Force F-4E Phantom II jets reached Istrana Air Base on Wednesday morning as they prepared to join the NATO exercise called Poggio Dart 2025.
The base sits near the Italian city of Treviso, and the arrival created excitement because these old fighter jets are now very rare inside NATO. The aircraft that came to Italy were “77-0303 (the well-known special-colored airframe), 73-1052 and 73-1055.” These planes still fly strong missions even though they come from the Cold War age.
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Long Flight Across Europe Before Training
The Turkish team did not travel alone. An A400M Atlas transport aircraft supported the trip, and this plane used the call sign “TUAF243.” The Atlas, with registration 21-0118, helped guide the formation on the long route.
The group crossed the skies over Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia before reaching Italy. After the long flight, all jets landed safely at Istrana, which hosts the Italian Air Force’s 51st Wing. People at the base welcomed the visitors because it is not common to see Turkish Phantoms in Italy, reported Itamilradar.
These Phantoms still carry an important role for Turkey, and they often take part in NATO missions. Many air forces retired this model years ago, so their presence gives the exercise a special look. Aviation fans also pay close attention whenever these jets appear in Europe because they know only a few of them still fly inside the alliance.
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Poggio Dart 2025
Poggio Dart 2025 will run from December 1 to December 4. The event will use NATO aircraft to practice close air support missions and train with JTAC teams on the ground. The mix of modern jets and older F-4E fighters will make the drill interesting for both pilots and ground crews. The organizers expect the Turkish Phantoms to add more value because they still deliver strong performance even with their age.
