Why is Russia building a large base northwest of Deir Ezzor? Formally it is linked to the Syrian army (SAA) maxi offensive against the Islamic State in Badia, but it is feared that there is more behind it

Why is Russia building a large military base in Al-Tebni, northwest of Deir Ezzor city? The works have recently begun and are formally linked to the support on the ground that the Moscow troops provide to the Syrian army (SAA) against the Islamic State in the Badia desert. Indeed, there appears to be a plan to surround the IS pockets in the quadrant. This, using the river and another structure, newly established by pro-Iran militias at the Sawana (Homs) phosphate mines, as a barrier. In this context, the Federation’s new base would be a launch platform for operations. It is feared, however, that there may be more behind it. Especially since Russia could have exploited easily those of the SAA already present there.