Russian airbase in Syria: Exposed vulnerabilities and stakes
On social media, a recording has surfaced confirming that a significant amount of valuable equipment remains at the Russian Humaymim airbase in Latakia province. Various types of aircraft and air defence systems are visible. However, some observers note that the fact so many details have been captured by a drone suggests the Russians cannot feel entirely secure there.
The base in the port city of Tartus and the Humaymim airbase are the two most crucial sites in Syria from the Kremlin's perspective, as they allow Russia to maintain influence in the region.
After the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, chaos ensued in Syria, prompting the Russians to relocate some of their equipment to safer regions to avoid losses. However, it is now confirmed that they still have much at stake.
Russian planes at the Humajmim airbase in the Latakia province
In the shared recording, everything is remarkably clear. On the premises used by the Russians, strike aircraft, including Su-24 frontline bombers, Su-34 tactical bombers, and Su-30/35 multirole fighters, remain.
The recording also reveals that the Russians still have transport aircraft (An-72, An-26, and Il-76) as well as helicopters at their airbase. These include Mi-8 multirole helicopters, but the Ka-52 attack helicopters are particularly notable as they are among the newer machines produced by Russian factories (since 2008). These helicopters feature a coaxial rotor system and are equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon, alongside additional rockets or bombs on six pylons. These may include Vikhr anti-tank guided missiles.
The Russians wish to remain in Syria
The Kremlin is making significant efforts to reach an agreement with the new authorities in Syria to continue using this facility. According to Bloomberg, a preliminary agreement has been reached with Syrian rebels from the group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, stated that Russia hopes to maintain the bases and "continue the fight against international terrorism". He emphasised that the final decision regarding the future of Russian forces in Syria has not yet been made.
Analysts discussing the published recording appear divided. Some view it as evidence of the Kremlin's relative calm. Others, however, suggest that the presence of a drone in such close proximity to the Russian base indicates that it is no longer a safe location for them and is unlikely to become one, even with possible agreements with HTS.
