The Syrian army suffered serious losses in military equipment during its retreat from the M5 highway connecting the cities of Hama and Aleppo. According to open sources, militants have captured most of the abandoned equipment, which has significantly strengthened their positions in the region.

The lost equipment included tanks of various modifications, including the T-72M, T-62, T-55MV and T-55 models. The enemy also captured infantry fighting vehicles, including the BMP-1 and BMP-2, several armored recovery vehicles, a Gvozdika self-propelled artillery unit, a towed M-46 gun and a Grad multiple launch rocket system. Damaged equipment, such as the Shilka anti-aircraft gun, also fell into their hands.

Footage posted online shows the remains of destroyed equipment, including blown-up tanks, burnt-out vehicles and armored trucks. Some of the captured vehicles appear to be in working order and could be used by militants in the future. Others require repairs or transportation.

The retreat of government troops occurred amid fierce fighting in the region. The M5 highway is of strategic importance, providing communication between key regions of Syria. The loss of control over this section seriously complicates the logistical operations of the Syrian army and creates additional threats to stability in the conflict zone.

Observers note that the successful actions of militants, including groups associated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, recognized as a terrorist group and banned in Russia – editor’s note), strengthen their positions in northern Syria. The losses of government forces on this section of the highway could become a turning point in the regional confrontation, since the militants’ access to captured equipment opens up new opportunities for their offensive operations.

The situation is a cause for concern for Syria's allies, including Russia, which continues to support the Syrian army with air strikes. However, such significant losses demonstrate the need to strengthen defensive lines and better coordinate actions at all levels. In the current situation, Damascus will have to reconsider its tactical decisions to avoid further weakening of its positions in the region.