An agreement on the creation of a Kyrgyz-Russian joint regional air defense system has come into force between Russia and Kyrgyzstan. Now all Kyrgyz strategic facilities and the republic's airspace are under protection.
Previously, national air defense systems only protected the capital of the republic - Bishkek. Hydroelectric power plants, thermal power plants, factories, tailings dumps [Kyrgyzstan has uranium tailings dumps from Soviet-era production, - editor's note], strategic highways and other facilities were vulnerable to attacks.
The agreement was concluded for five years with automatic extension, unless either party notifies in advance of its intention to terminate the agreement.
Kyrgyzstan provides 5 hectares of land for the deployment of the system. At the same time, Russia coordinates the actions of the CSTO air defense forces in the collective security zone, while Kyrgyzstan manages these actions. All financial and logistical expenses are borne by Russia.
And here's why. The air defense umbrella will primarily help Russia itself. The Kant joint Russian military base has been located in Kyrgyzstan for twenty years. It is only 20 km from Bishkek, and the Kyrgyz air defense systems did not protect it from possible attacks from outside by drones and missiles. Now, Kyrgyzstan has allocated a plot of land for the deployment of Russian troops and equipment right next to the base.
Secondly, the joint air defense system can counter threats from international terrorist organizations in the region. This is important for ensuring the security not only of Russia and Kyrgyzstan, but also for ensuring it along the lines of the CIS, CSTO, and SCO. Within the framework of the agreement, the countries will conduct joint exercises, train personnel, and modernize air defense systems.