Russia returned the SU-25 attack aircraft to Syria

The Russian Armed Forces again deployed Sukhoi SU-25 attack aircraft to Syria after a year’s interval.

Images from civilian satellite company ImageSat International released a new photo showed returned SU-25 attack aircraft at Khmeimim air base in Syria.

Recent satellite images from ImageSat reveal a new deployment of SU-25 aircraft at the Khmeimim base since the previous one in July 2018.

The Khmeimim base, along with a naval facility in Tartus, is one of the two of the primary Russian military installations in Syria. The Russians have reportedly stationed advanced anti-aircraft missile systems and combat aircraft at the base.

ImageSat International said strengthening the order of forces of Russian air support can indicate a Russian intention to take over the northern Syrian region by force, along with the Syrian army, in case Turkey decides to realize the threat of seizing a security zone.

“The Russian move on the ground signals to Turkey that Russia is “serious” in its desire to leave the entire territory of Syria under Syrian sovereignty, even at the cost of a military confrontation with the Turkish army,” a said in statement.

For reference, SU-25 attack aircraft, commonly known as Grach, designed for close air support to maneuvering land forces.

The Russian Air Force currently operates about 250 SU-25s and is upgrading around 80 to SU-25SM standard.