Russia strengthens defence in light of Turkey incident, Moscow claims to destroy 'Islamic State oil empire'
Russia recently installed a state-of-the-art missile system in Syria as part of its efforts to bolster air defence system. According to reports, the move can also be a considered as a consequence of Turkey shooting down its Su-24 jet near the Syrian border.
Russia not backing out of Syria as it stationed an advanced missile system in Syria’s Hmeymim airbase in Latakia. Furthermore, it has continued its efforts to target the Islamic State. Moscow just released a series of photos supposedly showcasing the Russian military forces attacked the extremist group's "oil empire."
The installed S-400 Triumf missile system can reportedly destroy ballistic missiles up to 400 kilometres in range. The system also has wide detection and rocket range extending up to 600 km. It is also capable of shooting down strategic and tactical aircrafts. The system is advanced enough to target flying subjects at five metres (16 ft) of altitude or those speeding and flying up to 4.8 kilometres per second (17,280 kph).
According to the Indian Express, Russia's move can be considered as part of the initiative to bolster is air defence capabilities after the downing of it warplane. Turkey confirmed the incident saying Moscow violated airspace. The latter denied the accusations. The incident has since then strained the relationship between the two countries.
Moscow has also gotten back at Turkey claiming its involvement in oil trafficking of ISIS. Turkey defended its involvement. Nonetheless, Moscow continued with its efforts to target extremist groups in the area. Recently, it released footage of its military force bombing ISIS oil tankers. Kremlin officials said that the nation launched the campaign successfully. Russian warplanes pulverized the vehicles suspected to be transporting oil into the black market.
Lieutenant General Sergei Rudskoy released the photos to journalists, according to The Telegraph. Rudskoy is a senior figure in Russian Armed Forces command. According to Russia's defence ministry, Moscow destroyed around 17 such truck columns, allegedly also part of ISIS's oil rackets.
Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.
