(Institute for National Security Studies-Tel Aviv University) Zvi Magen and Yiftah Shapir - Egypt and Russia are holding talks on the purchase of the S-300VM air defense system. The S-300V system was developed in the 1980s for the Soviet land forces, and all its components are mounted on tracked vehicles. This system should not be confused with the various models of the S-300 system (S-300P) which were offered at one time to Iran and Syria. However, the air defense system is considered to be of a higher quality than the systems previously supplied to the Middle East. Egypt today is not in conflict with Israel, yet entry of such systems into the region could have precedent-setting consequences. Concluding the deal with Egypt helps improve Russia's standing internationally. It may also serve as an example for other countries in the Middle East and thereby challenge U.S. interests in the region.
2014-12-03 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive