Russia's last submarine departs Tartus

Russia's last submarine in the Mediterranean, the Improved Kilo Class Noborossiysk (B-61), has left its base in Tartus, Syria, marking a significant shift in Moscow's naval presence in the region.

The submarine departed on January 2 through the Strait of Gibraltar, as confirmed by the Portuguese Navy. This departure comes after the loss of the naval base in Tartus, which had been a key strategic point for Russia in the Mediterranean.

The departure of the submarine is another blow to Russia's military influence in the region, particularly following the toppling of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime by rebel forces.

Assad's fall has left Russia without its only naval base on the Syrian Mediterranean coast. With the ongoing war in Ukraine depleting Russian resources, the Kremlin faces significant challenges in maintaining its military presence in the Mediterranean.

Financial constraints make it unlikely that Moscow will be able to afford continued submarine deployments in the region.

The loss of Tartus, which has been central to Russia's influence in Africa and the Middle East, further weakens Moscow's naval capabilities. The Russian Navy has faced maintenance challenges, especially as resources have been redirected towards the war in Ukraine.

The Russian Mediterranean Sea Task Force, established in 2013, had consistently deployed submarines in the region, with the last notable absence occurring in late 2023.

While there are no confirmed reports of new bases, Russia may attempt to negotiate with Syria’s new government to maintain its military foothold in the region.

Potential alternative locations for a base include towns in eastern Libya, such as Tobruk, A Burdi, or Benghazi, which are under the control of Russian ally Khalifa Haftar.