Russia to Upgrade Naval, Air Bases in Syria: Interfax

Russian servicemen assist air force pilots in a Russian Sukhoi Su-30SM fighter jet before
PAUL GYPTEAU/AFP/Getty

(REUTERS) – Russia plans to improve and expand its naval and air bases in Syria, Interfax news agency reported on Sunday, citing an unnamed source, as Moscow cements its presence in the Middle Eastern country, its only overseas military deployment.

The source told Interfax that Russia will start repairing a second runway at Hmeimin air base near Latakia, while the Tartus naval base will be upgraded in order to handle bigger ships such as cruisers.

President Vladimir Putin has announced a partial withdrawal of Russian forces from Syria, where they have been helping forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. But Moscow wants to retain a permanent presence both in Hmeimin and Tartus.

Read more here.

COMMENTS

Please let us know if you're having issues with commenting.