Turkey moves to secure Syria’s T4 Airbase amid regional tensions

ANKARA / DARAMSUQ — Turkey has initiated efforts to take control of Syria’s Tiyas Airbase, commonly known as T4, as part of a broader strategy to establish a foothold in the war-torn country, sources familiar with the matter have revealed to Middle East Eye. This move comes as Ankara and Damascus continue discussions on a defense pact following the collapse of the regime of Bashar al-Assad in December.

According to sources, Turkey is preparing to deploy a Hisar-type air defense system at T4 to secure the base and surrounding airspace. The deployment is expected to pave the way for extensive reconstruction and expansion, including the installation of surveillance and combat drone systems.

Shift in Turkey’s Syria Strategy

Despite previously dismissing speculation about a sustained military presence in Syria, Turkish officials have continued negotiations with Syrian Transitional Government (STG). The proposed defense agreement would see Turkey providing air cover and military assistance to the STG, which remains without an advanced army.

Ankara’s move to T4 signals its intent to stabilize the region and counter the presence of Islamic State (IS) fighters who still operate in Syria’s desert areas. The strategic air base, located near Palmyra, would grant Turkey significant aerial control, reinforcing its military and intelligence capabilities.

One source indicated that Turkey eventually aims to establish a multi-layered air defense system at T4, incorporating short-, medium-, and long-range capabilities to counter potential threats, including enemy aircraft, drones, and missile attacks.

Israeli Concerns and Regional Implications

Israel has taken particular interest in developments at T4, having frequently targeted military infrastructure in Syria in recent months. Following a series of Israeli airstrikes against the base and surrounding areas, an Israeli security source warned that Turkey’s presence in Syria could pose a serious challenge to Israel’s military operations.

“Any Turkish military foothold in Syria is a potential threat to our operational freedom in the air,” an Israeli official told The Jerusalem Post.

Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated significantly since Israel’s offensive in Gaza in 2023, disrupting a brief period of diplomatic reconciliation. With Assad’s departure and Turkey filling the resulting power vacuum, Israel increasingly views Ankara as a strategic competitor in Syria.

Strategic Outlook

Ankara’s control of T4 would significantly shift the balance of power in Syria, impacting not only its relationship with the STG but also the broader geopolitical landscape involving Israel, the US, and Russia. Turkey’s growing military footprint could redefine its role in Syria’s future, positioning itself as a key actor in shaping post-Assad governance and regional security.