Syria plans to convert Russian bases into training centers
Damascus moves to repurpose remaining Russian military facilities as army training hubs following gradual withdrawal of Moscow’s forces
DAMASCUS, Syria (MNTV) — Syria plans to convert remaining Russian military bases into training centers for its national army, President Ahmed al-Sharaa has announced, signaling a shift in control following Moscow’s drawdown of forces.
Speaking at an event hosted by Chatham House in London, al-Sharaa said that out of dozens of military sites previously operated by Russia, only two key bases remain, which Damascus now intends to repurpose for military training.
Before the withdrawal, Russia maintained a widespread network of around 21 bases and 93 military installations across Syria.
Its two most significant sites were the naval base in Tartus, Moscow’s only full naval facility in the Mediterranean, and the Khmeimim Air Base near Latakia, which served as the primary hub for Russian air operations.
Russia began a large-scale withdrawal in late 2024 following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government.
In the initial phase, Russian forces rapidly abandoned numerous forward positions and smaller installations, particularly in northern, eastern, and mountainous areas, consolidating their presence around the two coastal bases.
Throughout 2025, the withdrawal continued gradually as Russian forces faced increasing restrictions imposed by Syria’s new authorities, including limitations on movement and periodic disruptions at Tartus port.
Discussions over the future of Russia’s military presence intensified during al-Sharaa’s visits to Moscow in late 2025 and early 2026.
A significant step came in January 2026, when Russian troops vacated a base near Qamishli International Airport, previously used as a logistics hub and monitoring point near the Turkish border.
Equipment and personnel were either relocated to Khmeimim or transported back to Russia via military aircraft, leaving the facility under Syrian control.
Despite the reduction, a limited Russian presence remains at Khmeimim and Tartus, estimated at several hundred to around a thousand personnel, including technical staff and security units.
This marks a substantial downsizing compared to peak deployment levels during the previous Syrian administration.
Analysts view the conversion of these bases into training centers as part of Syria’s broader effort to reassert military sovereignty and restructure its armed forces following years of foreign military presence.
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