Russia is deploying S-400 Triumf (NATO reporting name: SA-21 Growler) next generation surface-to-air missile systems to the Hmeymim airbase in Syria where the Russian Aerospace Forces group is stationed, according to Russian Defense Minister Gen. Sergei Shoigu.
Russia's President Vladimir Putin agrees with the Defense Ministry's proposal to deploy S-400 missile defense systems to the Syrian airbase.
“By the decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief S-400s will be deployed to Hmeymim airbase in Syria to provide comprehensive air defense,” Shoigu said.
On Tuesday, Turkish F-16s shot down a Russian Su-24M Fencer bomber. One of the pilots has been confirmed dead by Russian authorities, shot by rebel ground units after ejecting. The other pilot has been rescued and transported to the Hmeymim airbase Wednesday morning.
Turkey has cited airspace violations as its justification for shooting down a Russian Su-24 bomber on Tuesday. However, both the Russian General Staff and the Syrian Air Defense Command confirmed that the Su-24 never crossed into Turkish airspace, in accordance with precise objective control data.
Russian President Vladimir Putin described the incident as a "stab in the back, carried out against us by accomplices of terrorists."
