Russia’s strategic military expansion in Libya
The presence of Russian forces in six key Libyan air bases is raising alarms across North Africa. Moscow is not only deepening its military footprint but also facilitating the movement of weapons, mercenaries, and fighters into conflict zones.
The expansion spans multiple Libyan bases, including Al-Joufra, Al-Khadim, Al-Qardabiyah, Brak Al-Shati, Maaten al-Sarra, and Tamenhant. These locations house advanced military assets such as air defense systems, MiG-29 fighter jets, and drones. Russian military personnel and mercenaries are actively operating in these areas, with plans to further invest in the port and air base of Tobruk.
From Syria to Libya: a shift in russian military strategy
Before its operations in Libya, Russia relied on Syria as a transit hub for military equipment, weapons, and personnel. However, following the fall of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Moscow shifted its focus to Libya. After initial setbacks in securing a Libyan port, Russia expanded its influence inland.
The Maaten al-Sarra air base, strategically positioned near the borders of Chad and Sudan, has emerged as a critical hub for Russian destabilization efforts in the Sahel. Once abandoned since 2011, the base was restored by Russian forces in December 2024, with Syrian soldiers deployed to assist in the reconstruction of runways and storage facilities.
According to reports, Maaten al-Sarra now enables Moscow to supply weapons directly to Burkina Faso, Mali, and Sudan. The base’s location provides Russia with a covert supply route for arms deliveries into Sudan and Chad, enhancing its influence in the region.
How russian operations disrupt Libya’s fragile peace
Russia’s military presence in Libya is complicating efforts to unify the country under a single government. By obstructing the removal of foreign troops and mercenaries, Moscow is hindering peace negotiations. Analysts warn that Russia’s support for foreign-backed factions is prolonging instability in Libya.
The Al-Khadim air base, located about 100 km east of Benghazi, has become a central node for arms trafficking and resource exploitation across the region. Recent construction projects, including new hangars, recreational facilities, and potential communication towers, suggest a long-term presence. Reports indicate that in 2026, a barracks was added to the base, further solidifying its role.
In 2025, open-source investigations revealed that a Gazprom representative traveled from Al-Khadim to a Russian-controlled mine in the Central African Republic, documenting the journey on social media. Geolocation tools identified a Russian officer from the 102nd Motorized Rifle Division deployed at the base, confirming active military involvement.
Military upgrades and covert operations across libyan bases
The Al-Joufra air base, operational since 2019, has undergone significant upgrades, including refurbished hangars and new infrastructure. Similarly, Al-Qardabiyah, linked to the Syrte International Airport, has seen runway repairs, expanded perimeter defenses, and a newly constructed hangar in 2024.
Since March 2024, Brak Al-Shati in southwestern Libya has witnessed an increase in Russian activity, with new hangars and maintenance buildings constructed. The number of Russian personnel at the base has grown from 300 to 450 since December 2024.
The Tamenhant air base, located in southern Libya, has been used by Russian mercenaries—predecessors to the Africa Corps—to launch military operations and facilitate arms shipments to Sudan. Recent expansion efforts include new buildings, a renovated road connecting the airstrip to hangars, and runway modifications.
