| ABSTRACT | Based on the observed variability of the deep-water characteristics in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, multi-decadal high-resolution model simulations, at the basin scale, were carried out in order to identify the major pattern and processes of deep-water formation variability in the Aegean Sea and its influence in the adjacent basins deep circulation. Water mass characteristics and deep-water formation process in the Aegean Sea present very large temporal and spatial variability. This is related to the variability of the atmospheric forcing, the complex topography of the basin as well as the fact that the Aegean Sea receives very diverse water masses from the adjacent basins. The lateral fluxes of these water masses are crucial for developing the overall dense water formation pattern of the Aegean Sea. The central Aegean seems to play a key role in the water mass formation processes, for the entire Aegean basin. The water mass formation processes, together with seawater characteristics analysis strongly support the idea that central Aegean waters act as the connector in the basin-wide thermohaline cells. It is the combination of the high salinities of the surface waters reaching the central basin with the enhanced winter buoyancy loss that makes this area favorable for dense water formation. Interannual and decadal to multi-decadal variability is present in the Eastern Mediterranean sub-basins (with the Eastern Mediterranean Transient being the most prominent event influencing the deep waters of the whole Eastern Mediterranean), demonstrating the strong interaction between the various sub-basins. Water column variability and circulation pattern in the sub-basins are strongly affected by both the atmospheric forcing and the lateral fluxes through the boundaries with adjacent basins. |