Turkey Deploys Advanced Radar System in Syria Capable of Monitoring Northern Israel Airspace

Turkey has expanded its involvement in Syria beyond military cooperation and training by installing advanced technological capabilities. According to an analysis by the Alma Center, Turkey deployed the ASELSAN-manufactured HTRS-100 radar system at Damascus International Airport. Unveiled in January 2026 and presented by Syrian authorities alongside Turkish Ambassador Noh Yilmaz as a civilian system to enhance flight safety and air traffic management, the radar also possesses military-grade features.

The HTRS-100 can generate three-dimensional images of aircraft within a range of approximately 150 to 185 kilometers (80 to 100 nautical miles). This coverage includes much of the airspace around Damascus, parts of Lebanon, and adjacent areas in northern Israel. The system operates primarily on the S-band frequency and includes advanced weather and noise interference reduction, a secondary radar, and an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system commonly used for military aircraft identification. Its design allows continued operation even if some components are damaged or fail.

Israeli officials are closely monitoring the radar deployment due to concerns it could provide Syria and Turkey with enhanced situational awareness of regional air activity, potentially restricting the Israeli Air Force's freedom of operation. This radar installation is part of strengthening ties between Turkey and Syria, which also involve joint training, security cooperation, and various assistance programs. Israel is assessing whether Turkey is leveraging Syria's current situation and the waning Iranian influence there to increase its regional power.

While currently presented as a civilian system, Israel views the radar as part of a broader trend of Turkey expanding its presence in Syria and introducing advanced technologies that could shift the air power balance in the Middle East.