Turkey-Syria Security Agreement Sets Stage for Military Modernisation Without Troop Deployment

Turkey and Syria have formalised a new defence arrangement aimed at strengthening the Syrian military through training programmes, strategic advice, and access to weaponry - without the deployment of Turkish soldiers inside Syria.

The accord, signed in Ankara on 13 August, brought together top defence, foreign affairs, and intelligence officials from both nations. Under the terms of the agreement, Turkish military experts will assist in reorganising Syria's armed forces, enhancing operational effectiveness, and supplying equipment that ranges from weapons systems to logistical gear.

Turkish defence officials explained that the framework covers joint training initiatives, battlefield strategy sharing, and technical instruction on operating advanced hardware. The deal also leaves room for Turkey to advise Syrian commanders during live operations if required.

Damascus sought Ankara's support last month in the wake of Israeli air raids on Damascus and Sweida, strikes that further strained relations between Druze and Bedouin communities. The Syrian government faced criticism for its handling of the unrest, with some analysts arguing it failed to prevent the violence from escalating.

Although earlier negotiations touched on the possibility of Turkish troops using Syrian bases, this agreement avoids that step, instead resembling other security partnerships Turkey has established in the region.

Relations between the two governments have grown closer in recent months, partly due to frustration over continued Israeli attacks on Syria's rebuilt army. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa eventually turned to Turkey as a counterbalance to these assaults.

Ankara has also been outspoken about the slow-moving talks between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey regards the SDF as linked to the banned Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and has warned against delays in integrating Kurdish fighters into Syria's regular army. Security sources say Damascus is prepared to act if the SDF fails to honour a March commitment to join the government - with Turkey ready to lend indirect support.