Russia's Delivery of S-300s to Syria May Lead to Serious Escalation - US State Dept.

WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 03rd October, 2018) The United States hopes Russia did not deploy S-300 air defense systems in Syria because such a move would represent a serious escalation of the situation, US Department of State spokesperson Heather Nauert said during a press briefing on Tuesday.

"I cannot confirm that that is accurate. I hope that they did not, that would be a serious escalation and concern," Nauert said when asked about the administration's reaction to reports that Russia sent S-300 systems to Syria.

Nauert said she has seen reports on Russia's delivery of S-300s to Syria but added that she had no information to provide on the matter.

Earlier on Tuesday, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Russia completed the delivery of S-300 systems to Syria, including 49 units of systems-related equipment such as radars, basic target acquisition systems, command posts and four launchers.

The deployment of S-300 air defense systems to Syria is aimed at boosting the security of Russian military personnel in the country.

US Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman Colonel Sean Ryan told reporters earlier on Tuesday that Russia's introduction of the S-300 air defense system in Syria, although a concern, has had no impact on US-led forces on the ground. At this point, the deconfliction process has not been used to address the S-300 threat, he added.