Türkiye to Deploy Air Defense Systems in Syria to Protect Against Israeli Attacks

Türkiye plans to deploy a layered air defense system in Syria to safeguard the country from Israeli attacks.

According to Middle East Eye, the deployment will take place as part of a defense agreement currently being negotiated at the government level following the removal of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

As part of this agreement, Türkiye will provide air defense for Syria, which is continuously subjected to Israeli strikes, as well as a ground component to protect key infrastructure.

The deployment of air defense systems is primarily being considered at the Tiyas Air Base, also known as T4, which could be used by the Turkish Air Force to station aircraft as part of the fight against the ISIS terrorist group.

“A Hisar-type air defense system will be deployed to T4 to provide air cover for the base,” Middle East Eye writes.

The airbase is located near Palmyra in central Syria, where, according to anonymous sources, Türkiye has already begun preparations for its future use.

The media added that Israel views the deployment of Turkish forces in Syria as a direct threat, as the country does not want Syria to be restored as a state with military capabilities that could potentially pose a threat to the existence of Israel itself.

“Once the system is in place, the base will be reconstructed and expanded with necessary facilities. Ankara also plans to deploy surveillance and armed drones, including those with extended strike capabilities,” the media added.

As part of the expansion, a layered air defense system featuring both short- and long-range capabilities will be set up at the base, which will serve as a hub for Turkey’s preparations for airstrikes against terrorists and the monitoring of Syria’s airspace.

While the Turkish Ministry of National Defense has officially declined to comment, Turkey’s active involvement in Syria began soon after Bashar al-Assad’s departure and the withdrawal of Russian forces. This shift enabled Türkiye to pursue more effective negotiations regarding its presence and military cooperation with Syria.

Militarnyi previously reported that the Turkish Ministry of National Defense announced a significant increase in defense spending in 2025 due to regional instability.