As part of the ongoing large-scale offensive in Syria, militants from the Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, recognized as a terrorist group and banned in Russia – editor’s note) group have seized strategically important weapons depots abandoned by government forces of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA). According to local sources, the militants have gained access to significant stockpiles of weapons and equipment, including several dozen man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), anti-tank missile systems (ATGMs), mortars and a large amount of ammunition.

This success strengthened the HTS's position in the region, allowing the militants not only to expand their arsenal, but also to increase their combat capabilities, especially in the confrontation with the SAA's aviation and armored vehicles.

Moreover, the militants managed to capture several infantry fighting vehicles, army trucks and armored repair vehicles, which is confirmed by Avia.pro sources and photographs of the militants themselves.

Experts warn that the presence of MANPADS by militants creates serious risks for the aviation of the Syrian army and its allies, including Russian forces operating in the region.

The HTS offensive is the largest in recent years and covers several key areas in northwestern Syria. According to Syrian and Western sources, the militants already control about 30-40% of Aleppo, including its southern outskirts, and continue to increase the pace of attacks.

The seizure of weapons depots also demonstrates the weakness and lack of coordination of the SAA's actions. As observers note, such losses could have been caused by the hasty retreat of Syrian troops under the onslaught of well-organized attacks by militants. In turn, Russian aviation has already carried out several strikes on HTS positions.