Russia Military Build-Up in Syria ‘Long Term’
Russia Military Build-Up in Syria ‘Long Term’ Monday September 21 st , 2015 at 4:35 PM 1 Share Russia’s military build-up in Syria is showing no signs of slowing down with Moscow adding significant air power to its growing array of assets along a stretch of coastline still controlled by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. According to a U.S. official speaking to VOA on the condition of anonymity, Russia now has 28 attack aircraft at the Bassel al-Assad air base near Latakia, up from four confirmed aircraft on Friday. “It’s a significant, long-term build-up,” the official said. “It’s a long-term deal.” The contingent includes 12 Su-25 “Frogfoots,” 12 Su-25 “Fencers” and four “Flankers.” Imagery experts at AllSource Analysis identified the “Flankers” as Su-30s. Stratfor , a geopolitical intelligence and advisory firm based in Austin, Texas, said the Su-30s are advanced aircraft “suited for both air-superiority missions, as well as ground attac