"We have plans to hand over some equipment to Tajikistan next year. I've examined the vehicle park and the preparations for the handover, and I believe the equipment will be transferred in operational condition, with a full ammunition load and within specified time limits," he said.
The minister said in exchange the Russian base would receive new and upgraded hardware with a full ammunition load.
Serdyukov said during a visit to the base he got acquainted with the military routine, highlighting the condition of equipment and hardware, social problems and support as the most important issues facing service personnel.
The 201st Russian military base was established in 2005 on the foundations of the 201st motorized infantry division. The base is deployed at three garrisons, namely: Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, Kurgan-Tyube, 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Dushanbe, and Kulyab, 230 kilometers (149 miles) east of the capital.
The base provides assistance to Tajik border guards protecting the Tajik-Afghan border, for which Tajikistan assumed responsibility in 2005, and support to the Tajik Armed Forces in case of invasion.
Tajikistan is the first stop on the drugs route to Russia and the West.
