Turkish Army Intensifies Operations Against PKK in Northern Iraq, Helicopter Downed

Jul 12, 2024, 09:14 AM

The Turkish Army has intensified its operations against the PKK in northern Iraq, particularly in the Tepe Bahar and Zap regions. The Turkish Armed Forces have successfully encircled a mountain and are clearing out PKK bases using the KORKUT SPAAG, a versatile self-propelled air defense system developed by ASELSAN. On July 11, the PKK reportedly shot down a Turkish Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter using ammunition initially provided by Germany for the fight against ISIS. The attack, which occurred in the Zap region, was carried out with a possible anti-materiel rifle, presumably a 12.7x108mm 'Zagros' or 'Shervan' sniper rifle. The PKK released footage of the downing on July 12. The Turkish Armed Forces have also seized various weapons, ammunition, and living materials from PKK bunkers and warehouses.