Turkey Reportedly Preparing to Deploy Military Forces to Syria's Strategic T4 Air Base

Turkish Military Plans Significant Deployment Including Possible S-400 Systems

The Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) have reportedly begun taking steps to deploy to Syria's Tiyas (T4) Air Base. They are preparing to install air defense systems in the region, according to the Turkish T24 news site. Turkey is allegedly planning to deploy both Hisar-type air defense systems and potentially S-400 air defense systems to the base, though the latter would require Russian approval.

Middle East Eye (MEE), citing informed sources, reports that Turkey will deploy Turkish-made Hisar air defense systems along with uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) with advanced surveillance and strike capabilities to the T4 Air Base. "A Hisar-type air defense system will be deployed to T4 to provide air protection for the base," a source told MEE. "After installing the system, the base will be reconstructed and expanded with necessary facilities. Ankara plans to deploy surveillance and armed drones, including those with extended strike capabilities."

Layered Defense Strategy

Ankara aims to establish a layered air defense system with short——, medium——, and long-range capabilities around the base. Sources claim that S-400 air defense systems might be temporarily deployed to T4 or near Palmyra to provide additional protection during reconstruction, though such a deployment would require Russia's approval. The T4 base is expected to provide Turkey with greater air control in Syria and serve as a starting point for intensified operations against ISIS elements that remain active in the region.

Israeli Concerns

Israeli security officials have expressed concern about the increasing cooperation between Turkey and the new Damascus administration. According to sources speaking to The Jerusalem Post, discussions have intensified regarding Turkey's potential establishment of a military base in Syria, which Israel interprets as a possible threat. "If a Turkish air base is established in Syria, it will undermine Israel's freedom of operation," an Israeli security source said. Israeli officials have reportedly been conducting internal discussions in recent weeks about the consequences of Turkey's increased involvement in Syria.

Recent Israeli Strikes

The Israeli military targeted the T4 base and nearby Palmyra bases on March 21-22, with airstrikes damaging infrastructure, including runways, hangars, and control buildings. The T4 Air Base occupies a strategic position in central Syria and has been a focal point of military operations in the ongoing Syrian conflict.

Photo:T24

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