Turkey is reportedly beginning the construction of a large military base in the Palmyra region of central Syria, which is expected to become one of Ankara's largest military outposts outside its borders. This base is projected to be comparable in scale to the U.S. military complex at Ramstein in Germany, a key NATO hub in Europe. This move marks a new phase in Turkey's efforts to bolster its presence in a region where territorial and resource control battles have persisted since the collapse of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024.
Preliminary data indicates that the decision to build the base has been agreed upon with the interim Syrian government, established by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) movement under the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa. The strategic location of Palmyra, situated in Homs province, was not chosen arbitrarily: its central position allows control over crucial communication routes between eastern and western Syria, while also providing access to desert areas where remaining groups continue to operate.
According to Ankara's plans, the new base will not only serve as a military facility but also as a logistics center capable of supporting Turkish forces and their allies across a vast territory. The base project envisions infrastructure similar to Ramstein, covering an area of approximately 14 square kilometers and accommodating over 16,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors.
If operational, Turkey will be able to deploy a significant force to this base, including aircraft, air defense systems, and weapon stockpiles. Sources indicate that Ankara has already sent construction equipment and technical units to the area.
Historically, Turkey has concentrated its military efforts in northern Syria, but it is now seeking to establish a foothold in central regions, a shift that could alter the balance of power in the area. Experts suggest that this initiative stems from Ankara's desire to enhance control over Syrian airspace and counter the influence of Kurdish armed groups such as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which remain one of the primary threats to Turkey's security.
Furthermore, the base in Palmyra could serve as a leverage point against Iran and Russia, two countries whose positions in Syria have weakened following the shift in power dynamics in Damascus. The construction of this military base not only signifies Turkey's strategic ambitions but also highlights the continuing complexities of the Syrian conflict, where various factions vie for dominance amidst a backdrop of shifting allegiances and international interests.
As Turkey embarks on this significant military expansion, the implications for regional stability and international relations remain to be seen. The ongoing conflict in Syria continues to draw in various external actors, each with their own agendas, making the situation increasingly volatile.
In summary, Turkey's establishment of a military base in Palmyra is a bold move aimed at solidifying its influence in Syria while countering rival forces. The strategic location, extensive infrastructure plans, and the support from the interim Syrian government underscore the importance of this development in the broader context of the Syrian civil war and regional geopolitics.
