Satellite images show an increase in operations at a suspected chemical weapons production facility in Syria, Agence France-Presse reported today (see GSN, Sept. 19, 2007).
"The satellite imagery that ... Jane's [Information Group] has examined suggests that Damascus has sought to expand and develop al-Safir and its chemical weapons arsenal," according to Christian Le Miere, editor of Jane's Intelligence Review.
"Further expansion of al-Safir is likely to antagonize Israel and highlight mutual mistrust, even as peace talks between the two neighbors progress intermittently," Le Miere said.
Jane's examined commercial satellite pictures dating back to 2005.
"The site contains not only a number of the defining features of a chemical weapons facility but also that significant levels of construction have taken place at the facility's production plant and adjacent missile base," the organization said in a statement. "This does not suggest that Syria is arming itself for an offensive but it could have regional security implications given Syria's tension with its neighbor, Israel."
Syria's chemical weapons program is believed to date back to the early 1970s. The Middle Eastern nation has likely produced mustard blister agent and sarin nerve agent, and has stockpiled up to 200 Scud missiles that carry sarin warheads, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative.
The high level of security at al-Safir is a clear indicator that its purpose is not civilian in nature, according to Jane's.
"Construction at the al-Safir facility appears to be the most significant chemical weapons production, storage and weaponization site in Syria," Le Miere said. "Its presence indicates Syria's desire to develop unconventional weapons, either to act as a deterrent to conflict with Israel or as a force enhancer should any conflict ensue" (Agence France-Presse/Spacewar.com, Feb. 18).