Russia's strategic anchors: Valuable assets remain in Syria
A video has surfaced on social media, confirming that there is still a significant amount of valuable equipment at the Russian airbase in Hmeimim, located in Latakia province. Various types of aircraft as well as air defense systems are visible, although some observers believe that the fact so many details were captured by a drone indicates that the Russians cannot feel completely secure there.
The base in the port city of Tartus and the Hmeimim airbase are the two most important facilities on the map of Syria from the Kremlin's perspective, as they sustain Russian influence in the region.
Following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, chaos ensued in Syria. Fearing losses, the Russians evacuated some of their equipment to safer regions. However, it is now confirmed that they still have much at stake.
Russian aircraft at the Khmeimim airbase in the province of Latakia
The shared video clearly shows the situation. The airbase used by the Russians still houses strike aircraft, including Su-24 front-line bombers, Su-34 tactical bombers, and Su-30/35 multirole fighters.
The video also demonstrates that the Russians still have transport aircraft such as the An-72, An-26, and Il-76 at the airbase under their control, as well as helicopters. The multi-role Mi-8 helicopters are present, but the attack Ka-52 helicopters, which are among the newer machines produced by Russian factories since 2008, particularly stand out. These helicopters feature a distinctive coaxial rotor system, and their armament includes a 30 mm automatic cannon and additional rockets or bombs on six pylons. The armament may include laser-guided anti-tank Vikhr missiles.
The Russians would like to remain in Syria
The Kremlin is making significant efforts to reach an agreement with the new Syrian authorities to continue using this facility. According to Bloomberg's findings, a preliminary agreement has been reached with the Syrian rebels from the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group.
Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov stated that Russia hopes to maintain the bases and continue "fighting international terrorism." He mentioned that the final decision regarding the future of Russian forces in Syria has not yet been made.
Analysts commenting on the published video appear divided. Some believe it is evidence of the Kremlin's relative calm. Others, however, suggest that the presence of a drone so close to the Russian base indicates that it has ceased to be a secure place for them and will not become one, even if agreements are reached with HTS.
