Turkish-backed Syrian rebels have captured an S-125 “Pechora” air defense system in what appears to be fully operational condition during an assault on Aleppo Airport.
Images and videos circulating on social media confirm that the air defense complex, long used by Assad’s forces, was intact and ready for immediate use when it was seized.
The rapid advance by rebel forces, which began earlier last week, overwhelmed Assad regime troops stationed at Aleppo Airport. According to reports from the ground, the regime forces abandoned their positions without any attempt to destroy or disable critical military hardware, including the S-125 system, before fleeing.
Defense analysts have expressed surprise at the readiness of the captured air defense system. “It is unusual for such valuable assets to be left intact,” said one defense expert, adding that it indicates the level of disarray currently affecting regime forces and their allies.
#BREAKING: Syrian National Army (SNA) forces captured Assad regime S-125 (SA-3 Goa) air defence systems in Tel Hasel, eastern Aleppo. pic.twitter.com/q4hnB2Cg8O
— Clash Report (@clashreport) December 2, 2024
The S-125 “Pechora” system, also known by its NATO designation SA-3 Goa, is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system originally developed by the Soviet Union. Despite its age, the system remains effective in targeting aircraft at altitudes up to 18 kilometers. Its capture by rebel forces raises questions regarding the extent of security and control over vital military assets by Assad’s military and its Russian and Iranian allies.
The loss of the air defense system follows a string of defeats for the Assad regime in northern Syria, where rebels have managed to gain ground rapidly amid fierce clashes. The fall of these positions has led to the capture of a large number of military assets, including tanks, armored vehicles, and even rocket systems, further underscoring the current weaknesses faced by regime forces and their allies.