Alper Gezeravcı promoted to brigadier general at Supreme Military Council: Pilot who spent 14 days at ISS will don new rank on August 30

Quick summary

Turkey's first astronaut Alper Gezeravcı was promoted to brigadier general, with his new rank effective as of August 30, 2026. At the same Supreme Military Council meeting, Özlem Karapınar also became the Turkish Air Force's first female general.

Why it matters

Gezeravcı's advancement within the military demonstrates Turkey's commitment to its civilian space program achievements. These appointments can influence the personnel structure within the defense and aviation sectors.

Key takeaways

• ›Alper Gezeravcı spent 14 days at the International Space Station in January 2024 with the AX-3 mission.
• ›During that period, he conducted 13 different scientific experiments supporting Turkey Space Agency and TÜBİTAK projects.
• ›With the Supreme Military Council decision, Gezeravcı was promoted to brigadier general and will use his new rank effective August 30, 2026.
• ›At the same council meeting, Colonel Özlem Karapınar received the title of the Turkish Air Force's first female general.