Military Source: Russian Missile Systems Protect the Latakia Airbase

The Russian news agency Interfax reported that the Pantsir-S1 and Buk-M2E missile systems have been deployed to protect the Latakia airbase in Syria. This report, published on Thursday, November 5, cites a diplomatic-military source, stating that Russia has taken such measures to counter potential ground and aerial attacks from terrorist groups. The Pantsir-S1 is a ground-to-air missile system equipped with anti-aircraft capabilities, while the Buk-M2E is a medium-range missile system that Russia has recently transferred to Syria. According to this diplomatic-military source, the mentioned systems protect all significant military and civilian strategic facilities, including the Latakia airbase where the Russian Air Force is stationed. It was also noted that this system guarantees the defense of sensitive installations against both aerial and missile attacks, functioning similarly to Israel's Iron Dome missile shield. Previously, General Viktor Bondarev, commander of the Syrian Federation Air Force, had announced the transfer of these systems to Syria. Russia has been conducting military operations in Syria for about 40 days, with the stated goal of destroying terrorist groups, particularly the group known as the Islamic State (ISIS). However, reports have emerged indicating that moderate Syrian opposition and Assad's opponents have also been targeted in these attacks.