Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa personally monitored preparations for the “Deterring Aggression” military exercise, emphasizing plans to integrate Shaheen drones with ground robots, tanks, armored personnel carriers (APCs), and artillery into a unified automated system. According to reports from AlekhbariahSY, al-Sharaa described the initiative as part of an effort to build a “new creative state” through electronic integration and advanced battlefield coordination.

The Shaheen drones, originally developed by HTS as anti-tank UAVs, are being repurposed for state military operations as part of a broader modernization program. Al-Sharaa, who previously led HTS under the name Abu Mohammad al-Julani, assumed the presidency after overthrowing Bashar al-Assad during the 2024 “Deterring Aggression” operation, signaling a transition from insurgency leadership to state governance.

The exercise is designed to link multiple military platforms via automated systems, allowing drones, robots, tanks, and artillery to operate in a coordinated, networked environment. Video footage shows al-Sharaa touring military facilities, observing screens displaying tactical data, and inspecting outdoor equipment being readied for deployment.

Officials described the initiative as a key component of Syria’s broader push toward electronic and networked warfare, reflecting efforts to modernize its armed forces while simultaneously advancing post-conflict economic rebuilding. Analysts note that the program represents both a symbolic and practical shift in Syria’s military strategy, transforming former insurgent technologies into state-level assets for national defense.