MOSCOW. Aug 3 (Interfax-ABN) - A possible loss of the supplies and logistics base Tartus in Syria would have a deep military-strategic impact on Russia and even mean the actual loss of its influence in the Mediterranean, a military-diplomatic source told journalists on Friday.
"If under some circumstances, Russia left Sevastopol, it would lose the Black Sea. Similarly, Russia would lose the Mediterranean if it left Tartus," he said.
"One may argue that Tartus is just a couple of rusting piers. It's not the piers that matter. Tartus is of extreme military-strategic importance for the Russian Navy, as the backup for its task forces in the Mediterranean. Therefore, its loss would entail deep negative consequences and the actual loss of influence in this key region, and also Russian warships' curtailed presence in the central and southern sectors of the Atlantic, in the Mediterranean, in the Persian Gulf and in the Indian Ocean," the military diplomat said.
Russia could maintain its presence in Tartus under rent arrangements as long as President Assad remains in power, he said. "The moment the regime falls, Russia's further stay in Tartus will become impossible since the Syrian opposition will not forgive Moscow for supporting Assad," the diplomat said.
Following a recent modernization the floating pier can accommodate two battleships simultaneously - frigates, or small landing ships.
There are about 100 Russian specialists stationed in Tartus now, including technicians and communication operators.