Turkey’s Ministry of Defense announced on Monday the deployment of six F-16 fighter jets and air defense systems to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, saying the move aims to ensure the region’s security.

In a statement, the ministry said the step is part of a gradual plan to strengthen the security of Northern Cyprus in light of recent developments in the Middle East.

The statement added that further measures may be taken depending on ongoing assessments and evolving circumstances.

The Turkish Defense Ministry had said on Saturday that it was considering deploying F-16 fighter jets to Northern Cyprus before confirming the decision.