Russia can calibrate war effort in Syria
The addition of a naval force adds offensive and deterrent capacity to Russia's existing military presence
Source: Izvestia, Rossiyskaya Gazeta, Vzglyad, Russian defence ministry
Outlook
Moscow is committed to protecting President Bashar al-Assad and delivering air strikes to help his troops capture ground from Syrian rebel groups. The presence of a naval flotilla including the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov adds to the offensive power of bombers flying from the Hmeimim base and from Russia. Cruise missiles can now be launched from the Admiral Grigorovich frigate as well as from air and land, while interceptor aircraft and modern missile systems ensure airspace supremacy.
This mixed force has been built up to support the latest offensive against rebel groups but can be scaled back easily when required. It makes Russia's position unassailable without demanding many ground troops.
Impacts
- Commanders can now choose between an array of weapons once Russia focuses on rebel-held Aleppo.
- Western powers will be deterred from 'interfering' in Russia's sphere of influence although they can still attack Islamic State in the east.
- Russia will transform the Tartus naval facility and Hmeimim air base into permanent military bases.
- The Syrian campaign allows Russia to test weapons, train personnel and advertise its arms industry.
See also
- Russian campaign failures stem from political errors - Mar 11, 2022
- Luck and opportunity advance Russian aims in Syria - Oct 24, 2019
- Modest Russian arms plan may dictate defensive posture - Feb 16, 2018
- Russia plans for partial withdrawal from Syria - Oct 30, 2017
- New missiles to up-arm old Russian ships - Aug 22, 2017
- Russian arms sellers seek solvent and friendly clients - Jul 10, 2017
- Russia will expand Middle East security and trade role - Mar 13, 2017
- Russian and Iranian visions differ on Syria's future - Mar 6, 2017
- Budget constrains Russia's arms purchase plans - Feb 27, 2017
- Russian naval drawdown will not limit Syria operations - Jan 6, 2017
- Prospects for Syria in 2017 - Nov 24, 2016
- More graphic analysis