Israel Monitors Syria’s Accelerated Air Force Reconstruction Amid Regional Tensions

Israeli security officials are closely monitoring developments in Syrian airspace following a noticeable acceleration in Damascus's efforts to rebuild its air force. Approximately 20 months after the Israeli Defense Forces declared the Syrian air force destroyed amid the Assad regime's collapse, Syria has begun recruiting new pilots and conducting training exercises using trainer aircraft and helicopters. The most significant recent event was a combat drill in northern Syria involving Sukhoi fighter jets.

This military rebuilding occurs as Syria, under President Ahmad al-Sharaa, receives backing from several countries including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and France. Concurrently, discussions are underway regarding a potential future security agreement between Israel and Syria. Despite these talks, Israeli defense officials remain concerned about the implications of Syria’s growing air capabilities and the expanding Turkish presence in the country.

Israeli authorities fear that Turkey’s increased foothold, particularly if it includes deploying air defense systems in Syria, could restrict Israel’s freedom of operation in Syrian airspace. A security source stated, "We are tracking developments in Syria and sharing our concerns with the United States."