Russia ramps up naval presence in Mediterranean shift
Russia is bolstering its presence in the Mediterranean Sea. The missile corvette "Soobrazitielnyj" and the tanker "Kola" have passed through the Strait of Gibraltar, joining the Russian fleet operating in the area.
What you need to know
- Russian missile corvette Soobrazitielnyj entered the Mediterranean Sea via the Strait of Gibraltar, escorted by the naval tanker Kola.
- The Russian fleet in the Mediterranean currently comprises various vessels, including a submarine, a frigate, and an intelligence ship.
- Changes in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime have restricted Russia's access to the base in the port of Tartus, necessitating more frequent ship rotations.
Moscow strengthens its forces in the Mediterranean
Another Russian ship has traversed the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean Sea. The missile corvette "Soobrazitielnyj," of Project 20380, was joined by the tanker "Kola."
These vessels reinforce the Russian Mediterranean fleet, which currently includes a submarine, a tugboat, a frigate, a tanker, and a reconnaissance unit.
Just two years ago, Russia maintained around 15 ships in this area, representing all four fleets, with the Black Sea Fleet playing a prominent role due to its geographical proximity.
Without a base in Syria, Russia changes strategy in the region
The situation changed after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria last December. The new authorities in Damascus prohibited Russia from using the base in Tartus, where the 720th material-technical support point had long been operational. This garrison, consisting of approximately 100 soldiers, provided logistical support to Russian units active in the Mediterranean Sea.
With no access to the Syrian port, Moscow is forced to rotate ships more frequently or utilize ports in Algeria, which continues to maintain friendly relations with Russia.
The corvette "Soobrazitielnyj," part of the Baltic Fleet, was constructed in St. Petersburg and entered service in 2011. It is designed for patrol missions but is also capable of conducting air defense and anti-submarine warfare operations.
