Syria and Russia agree to turn Hmeimim and Tartus bases into joint training centers

Syria and Russia have signed an agreement to transform the Hmeimim airbase and the Tartus naval base into joint training and capacity‑building centres. The pact, formalised in a bilateral meeting earlier this week, designates the facilities as hubs for coordinated military exercises, technical instruction and the sharing of operational expertise between the two nations’ armed forces.

Under the terms of the agreement, both sites will host regular training programs aimed at enhancing interoperability, improving logistical support and expanding the skill sets of personnel from the Syrian Arab Army and the Russian Armed Forces. The development is expected to strengthen the operational readiness of the bases, which serve as key strategic assets for air and maritime operations in the eastern Mediterranean region, and to deepen the defense partnership between Damascus and Moscow.