ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — On Wednesday, Turkey's defense minister confirmed that all 20 personnel aboard a military cargo plane that crashed in Georgia have tragically lost their lives. The C-130 aircraft was returning to Turkey after departing from Azerbaijan when it encountered problems and ultimately crashed in the Sighnaghi municipality of Georgia.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in the vicinity of the Azerbaijani border, causing deep sorrow and prompting an immediate investigation into the causes of the crash. The C-130 is a well-known military transport aircraft, commonly used by various air forces around the world for a range of logistics and operational tasks.

The information regarding the crash has highlighted the dangers faced by military personnel during transport missions, especially in regions that may be susceptible to adverse weather conditions or other operational hazards. The defense minister expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, reflecting the tragic nature of the incident and the loss sustained by the Turkish military community.

As rescue and recovery operations continue at the crash site, attention will also turn to conducting a thorough investigation. Investigators are expected to look into various factors, including mechanical failure, human error, and environmental conditions at the time of the incident. The C-130 has a storied history, often serving in challenging missions, but this incident underscores the risks involved in military aviation.

Further developments regarding the investigation and any official inquiries will be monitored closely, as the circumstances surrounding this crash deeply resonate within both the military and civilian populations in Turkey and beyond. The loss of these 20 individuals is a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel during their service.