MNA– Seven Russian S-300 air missile defense systems have been deployed in Syria, Russian Defense Minister Shoigu said, adding Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft-carrying cruiser has also begun combat operations.


"As you know, S-400 system was deployed a long time ago [in Syria]. In addition, we have deployed seven S-300 systems to cover the part of the sea practically to the territory of Cyprus," Shoigu said at Russian President Vladimir Putin's meeting with the ministry’s leadership and defense enterprises.

Moreover, Bastion coastal systems which virtually cover the entire coast are deployed, he said. "These complexes are able to destroy both sea and ground targets at a distance of 350 kilometers of the sea and almost 450 kilometers of land," Shoigu said.
He also confirmed that the Russian naval group in Syria is defended by the Bastion, moreover the Russian bases in Syria are now secure from low-flying targets.

"Pantsir systems are supplied there because of that. In addition, over the past four months the Syrian S-200 systems have been restored, which cover the Syrian territory from the east among other things and support the protection of our bases in Tartus and Hmeymim from the air." The Russian president ordered to protect the Russian Armed Forces in Syria from the air and sea. In October, the Russian Defense Ministry said that a S-300 squadron was sent to Syria to ensure the safety of the Russian naval base in Tartus.
"Today, we started a major operation to launch massive strikes on Daesh and al-Nusra Front targets in the Idlib and Homs provinces [in Syria]," Shoigu added.

"The Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrying cruiser began taking part in operations for the first time in the history the Russian Navy. Our Su-33 aircraft began working from this cruiser today. Before this, we carried out very careful, thorough reconnaissance of all targets," Shoigu said. According to the minister, the main targets include ammunition depots as well as plants producing weapons.