Russia to Deploy S-400 Defense Systems at Syria Airbase: Defense Minister
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Russia is sending its most hi-tech air defense system to its airbase in Syria, the defense minister said on Wednesday (Nov 25), as Moscow ratchets up its firepower over the war-torn country after the downing of its fighter jet by Turkey.
“The S-400 anti-aircraft missile system will be deployed to the Hmeimim airbase,” Sergei Shoigu was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies, AFP reported.
Separately, the Russian ambassador to France said on Wednesday Russia would be prepared to "create a joint staff" to fight the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) in which Moscow would work with France, the United States and even Turkey.
"We are prepared to... plan strikes on Daesh (ISIL) positions together and create a joint staff with France, the US, with all the countries who want to be in this coalition," said Mr Alexander Orlov, adding, "If the Turks want to be in at as well, they are welcome" despite tensions after Turkey downed a Russian military jet.