Russia is reinforcing Armenia’s security to enable its strategic ally to resist the regional threats and hazards, a Russian military expert said, commenting on the country’s current efforts to re-equip its base in Armenia’s second largest city, Gyumri, Tert.am reports.

“Reinforcement of the military base aims to offer protection against security threats, and make sure that any act of aggression will receive adequate response, irrespective of the inciter,” Igor Korotchenko told Tert.am.

However, he ruled out provocations by Turkey, describing the move as “precautionary.”

The expert expressed confidence that the reinforcement of the military base is mutually beneficial for both Armenia and Russia.

Asked about possible plans to use the resources of the military base in Russia’s current military operations in Syria, Korotchenko precluded such a development, noting that Russia has enough military force to tackle possible challenges.