Russia bolsters Mediterranean fleet amid Syrian base loss
Russia is strengthening its presence in the Mediterranean Sea. The missile corvette "Soobrazitielnyj" and the tanker "Kola" sailed through the Strait of Gibraltar, joining the Russian contingent operating in the region.
What you need to know
- The Russian missile corvette Soobrazitielnyj entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar, accompanied by the naval tanker Kola.
- The Russian contingent in the Mediterranean currently consists of several units, including a submarine, frigate, and a spy ship.
- Changes in Syria after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime have limited Russia’s access to the base in the port of Tartus, necessitating more frequent rotation of ships.
Moscow reinforces forces in the Mediterranean Sea
Another Russian ship sailed through the Strait of Gibraltar to the Mediterranean Sea. The missile corvette "Soobrazitielnyj" of project 20380 was accompanied by the tanker "Kola".
Both vessels joined the Russian Mediterranean contingent, which currently includes: a submarine, tugboat, frigate, tanker, and reconnaissance unit.
Just two years ago, Russia maintained around 15 ships in this area, representing all four fleets, with the Black Sea Fleet having a dominant presence due to the region’s proximity.
Without a base in Syria, Russia changes strategy in the region
This changed last December after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria. The new authorities in Damascus prohibited the Russians from using the base in Tartus, where the 720th Material-Technical Support Point operated for years. A garrison of about 100 soldiers provided logistical support to Russian units operating in the Mediterranean Sea.
Lack of access to the Syrian port forces Moscow to rotate ships more frequently or use ports in Algeria, which still maintains friendly relations with Russia.
The corvette "Soobrazitielnyj", belonging to the Baltic Fleet, was built in St. Petersburg and entered service in 2011. It is intended for patrol missions but can also conduct air defence and anti-submarine warfare operations.
