Yalova, the quiet city on the shores of the Marmara Sea, is now witnessing a strategic transformation that will reshape its economic and urban future. With the 2025 decision of the Supreme Military Council (YAŞ) to elevate its former military airfield into the 18th Main Air Force Command (18. Ana Üs Komutanlığı), Yalova is no longer just a touristic and agricultural destination but has become a new defense and economic center at the heart of Turkey.
Yalova… A Strategic Presence Strengthening Security and Development
The transformation of the former training airfield into a full-scale air base under the command of a general means Yalova is taking on a vital role in Turkey’s national security framework.
· Its proximity to Istanbul, Kocaeli, and Bursa makes it a key balancing point in the Marmara region.
· The base will serve as both a command and logistical hub, enhancing the city’s role on the air defense map.
Most importantly, this significant military presence opens the door to accelerated economic and urban development.
Economic Impacts on Yalova
Establishing such a major air command brings both direct and indirect investments, along with broad growth opportunities:
1. Infrastructure
Road improvements, expanded transportation, and increased port capacity — all projects that will fuel the construction and contracting sector.
2. Employment Opportunities
· Direct: Technical, logistical, and administrative positions within the base.
· Indirect: A boost for tourism, restaurants, hotels, commerce, and local services as thousands of military personnel and their families relocate to the city.
3. Real Estate and Housing
Rising demand for housing and land is expected to drive prices upward. Construction companies and real estate investors face golden opportunities to meet this growing demand.
4. Attracting Investments
A major air command strengthens investor confidence in both industrial and touristic sectors, positioning Yalova as a safe and appealing city for new projects.
What Does This Mean for Real Estate Investors?
Similar to other Turkish cities that developed significantly after the establishment of major air bases (such as Batman and Dalaman), property values are expected to rise in Yalova with population growth and improved infrastructure.
Today, Yalova is poised to follow the same path — with an added advantage: its close proximity to Istanbul makes it even more attractive for real estate investment.
A New Social and Developmental Dimension
· The opening of new schools and service centers.
· The potential establishment of a modern military hospital serving the entire city.
· Stronger national visibility for Yalova within Turkey’s development and defense agenda.
Conclusion
Elevating Yalova’s airfield into a Main Air Force Command is not merely a military decision — it is a major developmental step that will trigger an economic and real estate boom in the city.
For investors, Yalova is entering a new phase where tourism and nature meet industry and defense, making it a promising destination for those seeking safe and profitable investments in Turkey.