Russia continues to expand its military infrastructure in Libya, with the development of aircraft hangars, residential facilities and communications facilities at at least six air bases, while the United States monitors these movements via satellite and intelligence means.
According to what was reported by the Business Insider Africa website, Russian activities are concentrated in six Libyan air bases of strategic importance, including Al-Jufra, Al-Khadim, Ghardabiya, and Brak Al-Shati. MiG-29 fighters and drones were spotted at these sites, in addition to air defense systems, while development work on military facilities continues.
Thus, the Russian presence network extends from central and eastern Libya to the south of the country. The Ma'tan al-Sara site is of particular importance, as it is located near the borders with Chad and Sudan, and, according to the report, it may constitute a potential starting point for additional Russian operations in the Sahel region.
New hangars and barracks for soldiers
At Al-Khadim Air Base, according to available information, three new aircraft hangars have been established, in addition to facilities believed to be intended for accommodation. In 2026, a communications tower and new military barracks were added, indicating that the Russian presence is not limited to a temporary deployment, but is moving towards building a more sustainable infrastructure.
Reports also indicate an increase in the number of Russian forces in some locations. At the Brak al-Shati base, the number of Russian elements increased, within a few months, from about 300 to about 450 people.
Libyan bases may also allow Russia to transfer weapons and military equipment to other regions in Africa. The site of Ma'tan al-Sara seems particularly suitable for this purpose, given its proximity to Chad and Sudan and its connection to paths leading to the Sahel region.
According to Business Insider Africa, this geographical location may give Moscow greater ability to support its operations and logistical movements in other regions of the continent.
Washington is monitoring the Russian network
The United States is closely following developments, using satellite images and intelligence information. The report refers to data issued by the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency in the United States, which includes information about activities at the six air bases.
This Russian expansion comes at a time when Libya is still suffering from deep political and institutional division. The presence of foreign forces and mercenaries is one of the factors hindering efforts to unify state institutions and end the foreign military presence.
Strengthening the Russian military structure in Libya gives Moscow an opportunity to expand its influence in North Africa and its surrounding areas. Libya's geographical location provides access to strategic areas, and its bases can be transformed into supply and movement points towards the Sahel region.
The United States strengthens its capabilities from Germany
In parallel with Russian expansion on the ground, the United States is strengthening its military capabilities related to Europe and Africa from Germany, but at a different level. At Ramstein Air Base, Brigadier General Christopher A. Wernigel on August 10, US Space Forces Europe and Africa Command.
According to The Defense Watch website, the unit, which was established in 2023, has become responsible for 51 European countries and 54 African countries. Its missions include space operations, satellite communications, and countering interference and threats targeting the electromagnetic field.
Thus, the strategic competition between Russia and the United States is not limited to traditional military movements on the ground, but also extends to space and communications. While Moscow is working to consolidate its military structure in Libya, Washington is strengthening its space capabilities, in an indication of the expanding scope of international competition in Africa and its strategic surroundings.
