US to Reinforce Airbase in Turkey to Counter ISIL

The United States will reinforce its military airbase in Turkey to fight ISIL, US Department of Defense spokesperson told Sputnik on Friday.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The spokesperson’s comments come amid the US withdrawal of its Patriot surface-to-air missile systems from Turkey for immediate modernization upgrades.

"The US and NATO commitments to the defense of our Allies — including Turkey — are steadfast," the spokesperson stated. "The United States has and will continue to deploy additional air assets as we partner with Turkey to counter ISIL [Islamic State]."

The United States and Turkey, the spokesperson added, are consulting on taking other possible bilateral steps to reinforce Turkey’s security.

"The United States and Turkey will consult with NATO allies on the best means for the Alliance to address Turkish security concerns, and on the future of the air defense augmentation mission in Turkey," the spokesperson explained.

In August, the Turkish and US governments issued a joint statement stating the US deployment of Patriot units in Turkey, set to expire in October, will not be renewed.

The US Patriots have been present in Turkey as part of the NATO mission to the country since 2013.