southfront--2020-12-25--Famous Su-57 Entered Service With Russian Aerospace Forces (Video, Photos)

The first fifth-generation fighter Sukhoi Su-57 entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces , the TASS news agency reported , citing an anonymous source in the Russian military-industrial complex .
No official confirmation from the Russian Ministry of Defense has been provided yet .
The first production fifth-generation multirole fighter entered service with one of the aviation regiments of the Southern Military District of the Russian Federation .
The first production Su-57 fighter should be able to carry out combat missions from February 2021 .
The plane was spotted during the flight from the Komsomolsky-on-Amur Aviation Plant named after Yu.A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airport in Moscow .
The photos and video were made during its stop-over in Novosibirsk .
The Su-57 is designed to destroy all types of air , ground and surface targets .
The aircraft has a supersonic course speed , inboard munitions , as well as the advanced on-board equipment set .
The Su-57 is the first operational aircraft in Russian Air Force service to have radar absorbing coating ( stealth technology ) .
It also can be controlled by the artificial intelligence in unmanned mode at long distances from the base .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ online , Russia used augmented reality technologies on the production line for its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet .
The system works with QR codes that are being attached to Su-57 parts and allow specialists to work with the combination of real-world and virtual objects .
In August 2018 , at the Army-2018 International Military-Technical Forum , the Russian Ministry of Defense and PJSC Sukhoi Company signed a contract for the supply of the first two production Su-57 fighters with engines of the “ first stage ” .
The first production aircraft was supposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Defense at the end of 2019 .
The first Su-57 fighter crashed near Khabarovsk during flight tests .
The release was delayed because of this incident that took place , presumably , due to a malfunction in the aircraft ’ s control system .
In 2021 , the Russian Aerospace Forces will receive four more Su-57 aircraft .
According to earlier statements by the Minister of Defense of Russia Sergei Shoigu , the number of Su-57 fighters in the ranks of the Russian Aerospace Forces will be increased to 76 units over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Su-57 entry-into-service with the Russian Aerospace Forces marked Russian switch to the fifth-generation fighters .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • In Videos : Augmented Reality Technologies On Su-57 Production Line In Russia

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The first fifth-generation fighter Sukhoi Su-57 entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces, the TASS news agency reported, citing an anonymous source in the Russian military-industrial complex. No official confirmation from the Russian Ministry of Defense has been provided yet.
The first production fifth-generation multirole fighter entered service with one of the aviation regiments of the Southern Military District of the Russian Federation. The first production Su-57 fighter should be able to carry out combat missions from February 2021.
The plane was spotted during the flight from the Komsomolsky-on-Amur Aviation Plant named after Yu.A. Gagarin, presumably, to Zhukovsky airport in Moscow. The photos and video were made during its stop-over in Novosibirsk.
The Su-57 is designed to destroy all types of air, ground and surface targets. The aircraft has a supersonic course speed, inboard munitions, as well as the advanced on-board equipment set. The Su-57 is the first operational aircraft in Russian Air Force service to have radar absorbing coating (stealth technology). It also can be controlled by the artificial intelligence in unmanned mode at long distances from the base.
According to videos that have recently surfaced online, Russia used augmented reality technologies on the production line for its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter jet. The system works with QR codes that are being attached to Su-57 parts and allow specialists to work with the combination of real-world and virtual objects.
In August 2018, at the Army-2018 International Military-Technical Forum, the Russian Ministry of Defense and PJSC Sukhoi Company signed a contract for the supply of the first two production Su-57 fighters with engines of the “first stage”. The first production aircraft was supposed to be received by the Russian Ministry of Defense at the end of 2019.
The first Su-57 fighter crashed near Khabarovsk during flight tests. The release was delayed because of this incident that took place, presumably, due to a malfunction in the aircraft’s control system.
In 2021, the Russian Aerospace Forces will receive four more Su-57 aircraft. According to earlier statements by the Minister of Defense of Russia Sergei Shoigu, the number of Su-57 fighters in the ranks of the Russian Aerospace Forces will be increased to 76 units over the next 8 years.
The first Su-57 entry-into-service with the Russian Aerospace Forces marked Russian switch to the fifth-generation fighters.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Turkish-Backed Militants Advance On Ain Issa In Syrian Raqqa Countryside

In the evening of December 24 , Turkish-backed militants resumed shelling of the Syrian defense forces ( SDF ) in the Northern outskirts of the town of Ain Issa , the ANHA news agency reported .
Turkish-backed militants bombarded the villages of al-Mushairfeh and Jehbel with heavy weapons .
The shelling was reportedly accompanied by a ground attack on the village of Jehbel .
According to the reports by Vedeng agency , the SDF managed to repel the attack of Turkish-backed forces , causing losses to militant groups .
No casualties in the ranks of the SDF have been reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly taken by the Syrian National army .
Both villages are located in the northeastern countryside of Ain Issa , along the M4 international highway .
The town of Ain Issa remains under the SDF control .
Earlier in the day , on December 24 , the Russian Military Police established a new position in the southern outskirts of the town .
Russian forces have a coordination and operations center in Ain Issa .
They are now reinforcing their troops in the town and its outskirts amid the resumption of heavy clashes between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A Turkish-led ground attack was launched a week ago and ended in a failure .
Since then , Turkish-backed forces continue shelling the town with heavy weapons , high-explosive anti-tank shells .
Russia allegedly pressured the SDF to hand over the town of Ain Issa and other regions in northern Raqqa to Syrian government forces .
Three joint observation posts were established in the outskirts of the town .
However , the region was not handed over and remains under the SDF control .
Turkey was allegedly preparing to launch a new large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is supporting the SDF in preventing Turkish forces from capturing the town of Ain Issa which is of strategic importance .
It lays on the M4 highway that links al-Hasakah , Raqqa and Aleppo .
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In the evening of December 24, Turkish-backed militants resumed shelling of the Syrian defense forces (SDF) in the Northern outskirts of the town of Ain Issa, the ANHA news agency reported.
Turkish-backed militants bombarded the villages of al-Mushairfeh and Jehbel with heavy weapons. The shelling was reportedly accompanied by a ground attack on the village of Jehbel.
According to the reports by Vedeng agency, the SDF managed to repel the attack of Turkish-backed forces, causing losses to militant groups. No casualties in the ranks of the SDF have been reported yet. The village of al-Mushairfeh was allegedly taken by the Syrian National army.
Both villages are located in the northeastern countryside of Ain Issa, along the M4 international highway.
#Ain_issa: Violent clashes and shelling at the villages Jabbal and Mushayrifa pic.twitter.com/xcfuxAW6i7 — Rojava Network (@RojavaNetwork) December 24, 2020
The town of Ain Issa remains under the SDF control.
Earlier in the day, on December 24, the Russian Military Police established new position in the southern outskirts of the town. Russian forces also have a coordination and operations center in Ain Issa. A large military convoy has been sent to the town and its outskirts amid the resumption of heavy clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed militant groups.
A Turkish-led ground attack was launched a week ago and ended in a failure. Since then, Turkish-backed forces continue shelling the town with heavy weapons, high-explosive anti-tank shells.
Russia allegedly pressured the SDF to hand over the town of Ain Issa and other regions in northern Raqqa to Syrian government forces. Three joint observation posts were established in the outskirts of the town. However, the region was not handed over and remains under the SDF control.
Turkey was allegedly preparing to launch a new large ground attack on the town. Russia is supporting the SDF in preventing Turkish forces from capturing the town of Ain Issa which is of strategic importance. It lays on the M4 highway that links al-Hasakah, Raqqa and Aleppo.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Russia Reopens Soviet-Era Lab To Develop Weapons For Arctic Sub-Zero Conditions

Russia is believed to be greatly expanding and beefing up its ability to wage warfare in extreme cold and icy conditions after it was announced Thursday that a Soviet-era laboratory has been reconstituted and newly opened in order to test weapons in Arctic weather .
“ The Central Scientific-Research Institute for Precision Machine Engineering , that makes weapons for Russia ’ s military , said it had restored testing chambers to simulate extreme conditions , ” reports of the facility which was shut down since the the end of the Soviet Union in 1991 .
The Institute issued a press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final step towards restoring this unique technological capability that had been lost after the fall of the USSR.
” The complex ’ s test chambers will actually be able to simulate a variety of conditions to also include extreme heat as well as wet weather .
He said the test site will begin work on a number of weapons , including rifles , specially-made grenade launchers and small caliber cannons in “ as low as minus 60 degrees .
The conditions are designed to mimic environments like the Arctic , but the facility @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potential battlefields .
Tests to see whether weapons can withstand tropical climes will be carried out in a combined heat and rain chamber , while a dust chamber mimics the pressures that deserts exert on firing mechanisms .
Typically when temperatures reach such extremes as minus 60 degrees Celsius , cars and machinery break down unless they are specially outfitted to operate in the extreme cold .
Without extensive protections even a person ’ s face can become frostbitten in just minutes after being exposed to such temperatures .
In remote locations like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) for example , schools , colleges and public places will only stay open until temperatures as low as -52°C , but upon reaching that limit will shut down for safety reasons .
Much standard military equipment would also not work properly in these conditions , hence Russia ’ s focus on developing and testing weapons that are optimal in Arctic conditions .
The plan is to also simulate how battlefield tactics would change in extreme and varied conditions .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Germany Protests “ Unjustified Tit-For-Tat Sanctions ” @ @ @ @ @ @

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
Russia is believed to be greatly expanding and beefing up its ability to wage warfare in extreme cold and icy conditions after it was announced Thursday that a Soviet-era laboratory has been reconstituted and newly opened in order to test weapons in Arctic weather.
“The Central Scientific-Research Institute for Precision Machine Engineering, that makes weapons for Russia’s military, said it had restored testing chambers to simulate extreme conditions,” Reuters reports of the facility which was shut down since the the end of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Via AP
The Institute issued a press release saying “the certification is the final step towards restoring this unique technological capability that had been lost after the fall of the USSR.” The complex’s test chambers will actually be able to simulate a variety of conditions to also include extreme heat as well as wet weather.
Russian media cited a senior technician, Sergei Karasev, as detailing further:
He said the test site will begin work on a number of weapons, including rifles, specially-made grenade launchers and small caliber cannons in “extreme temperatures” as low as minus 60 degrees. The conditions are designed to mimic environments like the Arctic, but the facility will also recreate a number of other potential battlefields. Tests to see whether weapons can withstand tropical climes will be carried out in a combined heat and rain chamber, while a dust chamber mimics the pressures that deserts exert on firing mechanisms.
Typically when temperatures reach such extremes as minus 60 degrees Celsius, cars and machinery break down unless they are specially outfitted to operate in the extreme cold.
Without extensive protections even a person’s face can become frostbitten in just minutes after being exposed to such temperatures.
The post-Cold War picture of Russia as weak and declining is outdated. Today’s Russia is formidable in cyberspace and a resurgent global power, from Crimea to Syria to the Arctic and beyond, writes Kathryn E. Stoner. https://t.co/1t0L8EErBK — The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) December 23, 2020
In remote locations like Russia’s Sakha Republic (Yakutia) for example, schools, colleges and public places will only stay open until temperatures as low as -52°C, but upon reaching that limit will shut down for safety reasons.
Much standard military equipment would also not work properly in these conditions, hence Russia’s focus on developing and testing weapons that are optimal in Arctic conditions. The plan is to also simulate how battlefield tactics would change in extreme and varied conditions.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Ukraine And Turkey Will Produce Ada-Class Corvettes At Mykolaiv’s Okean Shipyard

Turkish-designed corvettes will be produced for the Ukrainian Navy using Turkish technologies at the Okean shipyard in the Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv , the shipyard said on December 21st .
The parties signed a memorandum as part of the implementation of a framework military agreement signed in October 2020 during a meeting in Ankara between the presidents of Ukraine and Turkey , as well as a contract for the construction of corvettes , signed on December 14 this year in Kiev .
The memorandum provides for the signing of separate contracts between the parties in a clearly specified time frame @ @ @ @ @ @ @ press service of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine said that the news refers to corvettes of the ADA class .
The cost of the deal and the number of corvettes were not disclosed .
It is noted that this is the first purchase of foreign warships by Ukraine .
The ADA-class corvettes have a total displacement of over 2,400 tons .
The maximum speed is 29 knots and the cruising range is 3,500 miles .
The crew is 106 people .
The corvettes are equipped with eight Harpoon anti-ship missiles , torpedo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 324 mm Mk.32 or Mk.46 torpedo tubes , a torpedo protection system , a 76-mm Oto Melara Super Rapid artillery mount , as well as anti-aircraft missiles in the form of RIM 116 PU Mk 49 RAM .
ADA-class corvettes are equipped with a modern combat control system , navigation , sonar and electronic warfare system .
Such ships have a hangar for a helicopter or unmanned aerial vehicles .
There is also a deck area for the departure and landing of aircraft .
The pace of construction of each of the corvettes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2021 the laying of the first corvette hull of this class takes place , then at the end of 2024 our fleet may receive the first ADA-class warship , ” the Defense Ministry said .
Along with buying unmanned aerial vehicles ( UAVs ) from Turkey , Ukraine decided to strengthen its navy with Turkey ’ s MILGEM ( National Ship ) Ada-class corvettes .
MILGEM project is a national warship program of the Republic of Turkey .
Managed by the Turkish Navy , the project aims at developing multipurpose corvettes and frigates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of missions , including reconnaissance , surveillance , early warning , anti-submarine warfare , surface-to-surface and surface-to-air warfare , and amphibious operations .
As of 2018 , the MILGEM project covers four Ada class anti-submarine warfare corvettes and one ELINT corvette , four Istanbul class multipurpose frigates and TF2000 class anti-air warfare destroyers destined for the Turkish Navy , four Jinnah-class frigates for the Pakistan Navy .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • To Produce Warships And UAVs Under Turkish Supervision

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Turkish-designed corvettes will be produced for the Ukrainian Navy using Turkish technologies at the Okean shipyard in the Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv, the shipyard said on December 21st.
“In order to localize the corvette program, the Turkish State Defense Agency conducted an audit of the technical capacity of Ukrainian shipyards. The Ocean plant was selected and included in the corvette program, taking into account the unique technical capabilities of the enterprise, the availability of professional personnel and the current program for the modernization of production assets,” the statement said.
The parties signed a memorandum as part of the implementation of a framework military agreement signed in October 2020 during a meeting in Ankara between the presidents of Ukraine and Turkey, as well as a contract for the construction of corvettes, signed on December 14 this year in Kiev.
The memorandum provides for the signing of separate contracts between the parties in a clearly specified time frame, the Okean shipyard said.
The press service of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine said that the news refers to corvettes of the ADA class. The cost of the deal and the number of corvettes were not disclosed. It is noted that this is the first purchase of foreign warships by Ukraine.
The ADA-class corvettes have a total displacement of over 2,400 tons. The maximum speed is 29 knots and the cruising range is 3,500 miles. The crew is 106 people.
The corvettes are equipped with eight Harpoon anti-ship missiles, torpedo tubes for 324 mm torpedo tubes for 324 mm Mk.32 or Mk.46 torpedo tubes, a torpedo protection system, a 76-mm Oto Melara Super Rapid artillery mount, as well as anti-aircraft missiles in the form of RIM 116 PU Mk 49 RAM.
ADA-class corvettes are equipped with a modern combat control system, navigation, sonar and electronic warfare system. Such ships have a hangar for a helicopter or unmanned aerial vehicles. There is also a deck area for the departure and landing of aircraft.
The pace of construction of each of the corvettes is four years.
“If in 2021 the laying of the first corvette hull of this class takes place, then at the end of 2024 our fleet may receive the first ADA-class warship,” the Defense Ministry said.
Along with buying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Turkey, Ukraine decided to strengthen its navy with Turkey’s MILGEM (National Ship) Ada-class corvettes.
MILGEM project is a national warship program of the Republic of Turkey. Managed by the Turkish Navy, the project aims at developing multipurpose corvettes and frigates that can be deployed in a range of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, early warning, anti-submarine warfare, surface-to-surface and surface-to-air warfare, and amphibious operations.
As of 2018, the MILGEM project covers four Ada class anti-submarine warfare corvettes and one ELINT corvette, four Istanbul class multipurpose frigates and TF2000 class anti-air warfare destroyers destined for the Turkish Navy, four Jinnah-class frigates for the Pakistan Navy.
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southfront--2020-12-25--President Aliyev: We Could Carry Out Military Operation In Armenia, But We Don’t Want To

On December 24th , Azerbaijani soldiers demanded half of the Armenian village of Shurnukh .
The Azerbaijanis were in the village of Shurnukh , delimitation was being carried out .
Head of Shurnukh village Hakob Arshakyan told Armenian News .
At government session , on December 24th , Nikol Pashinyan said that the situation in the villages of Vorotan and Shurnukh “ could lead to a painful situation.
” It is significant that the residents are informed about the transfer of their houses by the enemies themselves , the Azerbaijani soldiers .
In the village of Vorotan , for example @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given an hour to collect their property .
Otherwise , Azerbaijani soldiers threatened the owners of the houses with captivity .
Meanwhile , Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said that Baku could carry out a military operation on the territory of Armenia , but it simply chose not to do so .
Aliyev gave a Presidential Order on demobilization from military service on mobilization Guided by paragraph 25 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan , in accordance with Article 18.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republic of Azerbaijan ” I decide : • Pursuant to the Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No .
2280 of September 28 , 2020 , conscripts shall be gradually discharged from military service on mobilization from December 25 , 2020 to April 15 , 2021 .
• To the Ministry of Defense of the Azerbaijani Republic and the State Border Service of the Azerbaijani Republic to regularly inform the President of the Azerbaijani Republic on execution of Item 1 of this Order .
• To the Cabinet of Ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions following from this Order .
• This Order becomes effective from the date of signing .
Azerbaijani activities on the engineering support for troops in “ liberated territories ” are carried out .
The units of Engineering Troops are restoring roads and carrying out mine clearing in these roads with the purpose of safe movement of military vehicle convoys .
Activities are being carried out to lay new roads in the directions of human settlements and the positions of our units .
At the same time , the sowing plots are being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has begun there .
At the same time , unexploded shells and mines are detected and defused .
The specialists of the International Mine Action Centre of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation continue work on demining the territory .
Engineering units of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Nagorno-Karabakh complete demining of the northern outskirts of Stepanakert .
In total , during the peacekeeping operation in Nagorno-Karabakh , engineering units cleared more than 274 hectares of terrain and about 105 kilometers of roads , 451 residential buildings .
More than 8,7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In the course of demining and clearing the territory of explosive objects in Nagorno-Karabakh , Russian peacekeepers use modern robotic systems that allow them to maintain a high rate of demining in mountainous terrain and deteriorating weather .
Discovered explosive objects and unexploded ammunition are removed and destroyed at a specially equipped landfill .
Ammunition that can not be evacuated is destroyed on the spot with the necessary security measures in place .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Azerbaijan ’ s President Gives Example To His People , As Pressure On @ @ @ @

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On December 24th, Azerbaijani soldiers demanded half of the Armenian village of Shurnukh.
The Azerbaijanis were in the village of Shurnukh, delimitation was being carried out. Head of Shurnukh village Hakob Arshakyan told Armenian News.
“They arrived about 20 minutes ago. Required 12 houses. As the headman explained, negotiations are underway. But if the process is carried out using GPS, half of the village will leave for the enemy.”
At government session, on December 24th, Nikol Pashinyan said that the situation in the villages of Vorotan and Shurnukh “could lead to a painful situation.”
It is significant that the residents are informed about the transfer of their houses by the enemies themselves, the Azerbaijani soldiers. In the village of Vorotan, for example, the residents of the houses were given an hour to collect their property. Otherwise, Azerbaijani soldiers threatened the owners of the houses with captivity.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said that Baku could carry out a military operation on the territory of Armenia, but it simply chose not to do so.
Aliyev gave a Presidential Order on demobilization from military service on mobilization
Guided by paragraph 25 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, in accordance with Article 18.1 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan “On mobilization training and mobilization in the Republic of Azerbaijan” I decide:
Pursuant to the Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 2280 of September 28, 2020, conscripts shall be gradually discharged from military service on mobilization from December 25, 2020 to April 15, 2021. To the Ministry of Defense of the Azerbaijani Republic and the State Border Service of the Azerbaijani Republic to regularly inform the President of the Azerbaijani Republic on execution of Item 1 of this Order. To the Cabinet of Ministers of the Azerbaijani Republic to solve the questions following from this Order. This Order becomes effective from the date of signing.
Azerbaijani activities on the engineering support for troops in “liberated territories” are carried out.
The units of Engineering Troops are restoring roads and carrying out mine clearing in these roads with the purpose of safe movement of military vehicle convoys. Activities are being carried out to lay new roads in the directions of human settlements and the positions of our units. At the same time, the sowing plots are being cleared of mines and the first sowing has begun there.
At the same time, unexploded shells and mines are detected and defused.
The specialists of the International Mine Action Centre of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation continue work on demining the territory. Engineering units of the Russian peacekeeping forces in Nagorno-Karabakh complete demining of the northern outskirts of Stepanakert.
In total, during the peacekeeping operation in Nagorno-Karabakh, engineering units cleared more than 274 hectares of terrain and about 105 kilometers of roads, 451 residential buildings. More than 8,7 thousand explosive objects were found and neutralized.
In the course of demining and clearing the territory of explosive objects in Nagorno-Karabakh, Russian peacekeepers use modern robotic systems that allow them to maintain a high rate of demining in mountainous terrain and deteriorating weather.
Discovered explosive objects and unexploded ammunition are removed and destroyed at a specially equipped landfill. Ammunition that cannot be evacuated is destroyed on the spot with the necessary security measures in place.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Syrian Air Defense Intercepts Israeli Missile Barrage Over Hama District

In the early hours of December 25th , Israel carried out missile strikes on Syrian territory , over the Misyaf region .
According to Syrian state outlet SANA , most of the missiles were intercepted by air defense .
A military source told SANA that at 12.40 a.m. , the Israeli enemy launched missiles from a position not too far from Lebanon ’ s Tripoli city towards Masyaf region in Hama , adding that the army confronted the aggression and shot down most of the missiles .
There is also a debris from a Pantsir-S / C1 anti-aircraft missile system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zone where the Israeli missiles were intercepted .
Later on , the unnamed reports were confirmed by the Syrian Defense Ministry .
The Syrian Ministry of Defense posted a statement saying Israel “ launched an aggression by directing a barrage of rockets ” from the Lebanese city of Tripoli towards the Masyaf area .
The ministry continued by stating their air defenses “ confronted the enemy missiles and intercepted most of them.
” The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported strikes on Masyaf , saying neighboring Israel was “ likely responsible.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was aimed at “ positions of regime forces and Iran-backed militias , ” without providing additional details .
Shortly before the raids , Israeli warplanes were heard flying over neighbouring Lebanon , with some residents of Beirut reporting seeing missiles in the skies over the city .
Israel regularly violates Lebanese airspace and has launched hundreds of raids in Syria since the start of the civil war in 2011 .
The attacks have hit government troops , allied Iranian forces and fighters from the Lebanese group Hezbollah .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Homs Desert , Mobilizes Forces In Southern Idlib • Militants Are In Panic As Syrian Army Mobilizes Forces Near Al-Ghab Plains

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In the early hours of December 25th, Israel carried out missile strikes on Syrian territory, over the Misyaf region.
According to Syrian state outlet SANA, most of the missiles were intercepted by air defense.
A military source told SANA that at 12.40 a.m., the Israeli enemy launched missiles from a position not too far from Lebanon’s Tripoli city towards Masyaf region in Hama, adding that the army confronted the aggression and shot down most of the missiles.
There is also a debris from a Pantsir-S / C1 anti-aircraft missile system of the Syrian army found in the zone where the Israeli missiles were intercepted.
Later on, the unnamed reports were confirmed by the Syrian Defense Ministry.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense posted a statement saying Israel “launched an aggression by directing a barrage of rockets” from the Lebanese city of Tripoli towards the Masyaf area. The ministry continued by stating their air defenses “confronted the enemy missiles and intercepted most of them.”
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also reported strikes on Masyaf, saying neighboring Israel was “likely responsible.”
The war monitor said the attack was aimed at “positions of regime forces and Iran-backed militias,” without providing additional details.
Shortly before the raids, Israeli warplanes were heard flying over neighbouring Lebanon, with some residents of Beirut reporting seeing missiles in the skies over the city.
Israel regularly violates Lebanese airspace and has launched hundreds of raids in Syria since the start of the civil war in 2011. The attacks have hit government troops, allied Iranian forces and fighters from the Lebanese group Hezbollah.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Last Days To Keep SouthFront Alive In 2021

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southfront--2020-12-25--Discount Reaper Drone? Meet China’s CH-4 UCAV

The CASC CH-4 is a dedicated Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle ( UCAV ) , developed and produced in China .
It is , at least externally , a copy of General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper drone .
The only distinction between the two is the ventral fin below the V-tail on MQ-9 , which is absent on the CH-4 .
There are two versions , the CH-4A and CH-4B .
The CH-4A is a reconnaissance drone ( capable of a 3500–5000 km range and a 30- to 40-hour endurance ) .
The CH-4B is a mixed attack and reconnaissance system with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of up to 250 to 345 kg .
CH-4 is capable of firing air-to-ground missile from altitude of 5,000 meters , therefore the aircraft can stay outside of effective range of most anti-aircraft guns .
It also allows CH-4 to be able to fire from a position that provides wider viewing area .
One of the international buyers of the CH-4 UCAV is the UAE , and on December 22nd , Yemen ’ s Houthis announced that its forces had shot down a Chinese-made CH4 unmanned combat aerial vehicle operated by the Saudi-led @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place in the province of Marib .
The CH4 was conducting strikes in support of pro-Saudi-forces , which are on retreat under pressure from the Houthis and their local allies .
Earlier in 2020 , in March , despite the pandemic , the Global Times reported that the CH-4 UCAV “ one of the top selling armed reconnaissance drones in the world developed by China , has now resumed as the novel coronavirus epidemic is being brought under control in the country.
” A workshop was seen full of drones being assembled , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great demand in the international market in 2020 .
One of the photos showed at least eight CH-4 drones being assembled in one large workshop , with no space left to spare in the facility .
The drones were seemingly in different stages of assembly , as drones on one side were near completion and those on the other side had just started and were just frames that had no paint and no electronic devices installed .
Global Times also described why that is happening : “ Drones are becoming increasingly popular in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chinese companies can offer them at very reasonable prices , offering good performances and after-sales services and not attaching political conditions , which are all advantages they have over Western countries ’ products .
The CH drones are particularly popular as they are very easy to operate and do not require very intensive and professional training.
” MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Make Way For The Armata : Russia ’ s Third-Gen T-14 Main Battle Tank Enters Serial Production

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The CASC CH-4 is a dedicated Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), developed and produced in China.
It is, at least externally, a copy of General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper drone.
The only distinction between the two is the ventral fin below the V-tail on MQ-9, which is absent on the CH-4.
There are two versions, the CH-4A and CH-4B.
The CH-4A is a reconnaissance drone (capable of a 3500–5000 km range and a 30- to 40-hour endurance).
The CH-4B is a mixed attack and reconnaissance system with provisions for 6 weapons and a payload of up to 250 to 345 kg.
CH-4 is capable of firing air-to-ground missile from altitude of 5,000 meters, therefore the aircraft can stay outside of effective range of most anti-aircraft guns. It also allows CH-4 to be able to fire from a position that provides wider viewing area.
One of the international buyers of the CH-4 UCAV is the UAE, and on December 22nd, Yemen’s Houthis announced that its forces had shot down a Chinese-made CH4 unmanned combat aerial vehicle operated by the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen. The incident took place in the province of Marib.
The CH4 was conducting strikes in support of pro-Saudi-forces, which are on retreat under pressure from the Houthis and their local allies.
Earlier in 2020, in March, despite the pandemic, the Global Times reported that the CH-4 UCAV “one of the top selling armed reconnaissance drones in the world developed by China, has now resumed as the novel coronavirus epidemic is being brought under control in the country.”
A workshop was seen full of drones being assembled, as analysts predicted the CH-4 will see great demand in the international market in 2020.
One of the photos showed at least eight CH-4 drones being assembled in one large workshop, with no space left to spare in the facility. The drones were seemingly in different stages of assembly, as drones on one side were near completion and those on the other side had just started and were just frames that had no paint and no electronic devices installed.
Global Times also described why that is happening:
“Drones are becoming increasingly popular in regional conflicts around the world, and Chinese companies can offer them at very reasonable prices, offering good performances and after-sales services and not attaching political conditions, which are all advantages they have over Western countries’ products.
The CH drones are particularly popular as they are very easy to operate and do not require very intensive and professional training.”
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southfront--2020-12-25--Syrian Army Hunts Down ISIS In Homs Desert, Mobilizes Forces In Southern Idlib

The Syrian Army launched a new combing operation against ISIS cells in the Hama-Aleppo-Raqqa triangle .
The operation is supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces .
As of now , clashes between the army and ISIS have resulted in the killing of at least 7 terrorists .
In the second half of 2020 , ISIS significantly increased its activity in the central desert .
ISIS cells reportedly buy supplies , including weapons , from U.S.-backed fighters based in the area of al-Tanf , as well as exploit the lack of control on the Syrian-Iraqi border to receive support from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , sources loyal to Turkish-backed militants claim that the Syrian Army has started mobilizing its forces in the southern part of Greater Idlib .
The army has allegedly deployed new reinforcements to the Jurin camp and the town of Shat ’ ha .
Militants claim that these developments are a part of the preparation for an offensive operation on the al-Ghab Plains .
A series of assassinations has targeted personnel of Syrian government forces and civilians in the southern province of Daraa .
On December 21 , gunmen shot and killed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a soldier of the 4th Division in the town of Sahem al-Golan .
On the same day , gunmen shot and killed two officers of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate in the town of Dael .
On December 22 , gunmen shot and killed a member of the 4th Division in the town of al-Yadudah .
Later , an IED explosion killed a local state employee , Ismail Musa al-Falah , in the town of al-Sanamayn .
Lastly , gunmen killed a civilian and two intelligence officers in the town of al-Ajraf @ @ @ @ @ @ @ active in the areas , where the attacks took place .
Nevertheless , the terrorist group usually claims responsibility for such attacks .
Therefore , militant groups supported by Israeli intelligence are more likely suspects in this case .
Recently , Israeli media outlets and think tanks started promoting the idea of military action to stabilize the ‘ chaos ’ in southern Syria and prevent what Tel Aviv likes to call the growing ‘ terrorist threat ’ from Iran and Hezbollah .
The issue not covered by these reports is that Israel itself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of instability there .

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The Syrian Army launched a new combing operation against ISIS cells in the Hama-Aleppo-Raqqa triangle. The operation is supported by the Russian Aerospace Forces. As of now, clashes between the army and ISIS have resulted in the killing of at least 7 terrorists.
In the second half of 2020, ISIS significantly increased its activity in the central desert. ISIS cells reportedly buy supplies, including weapons, from U.S.-backed fighters based in the area of al-Tanf, as well as exploit the lack of control on the Syrian-Iraqi border to receive support from a network of ISIS cells in Iraq.
Meanwhile, sources loyal to Turkish-backed militants claim that the Syrian Army has started mobilizing its forces in the southern part of Greater Idlib. The army has allegedly deployed new reinforcements to the Jurin camp and the town of Shat’ha. Militants claim that these developments are a part of the preparation for an offensive operation on the al-Ghab Plains.
A series of assassinations has targeted personnel of Syrian government forces and civilians in the southern province of Daraa.
On December 21, gunmen shot and killed a warrant officer of the Military Intelligence Directorate and a soldier of the 4th Division in the town of Sahem al-Golan. On the same day, gunmen shot and killed two officers of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate in the town of Dael. On December 22, gunmen shot and killed a member of the 4th Division in the town of al-Yadudah. Later, an IED explosion killed a local state employee, Ismail Musa al-Falah, in the town of al-Sanamayn. Lastly, gunmen killed a civilian and two intelligence officers in the town of al-Ajraf.
ISIS cells are known to be active in the areas, where the attacks took place. Nevertheless, the terrorist group usually claims responsibility for such attacks. Therefore, militant groups supported by Israeli intelligence are more likely suspects in this case.
Recently, Israeli media outlets and think tanks started promoting the idea of military action to stabilize the ‘chaos’ in southern Syria and prevent what Tel Aviv likes to call the growing ‘terrorist threat’ from Iran and Hezbollah. The issue not covered by these reports is that Israel itself and its actions remain the main source of instability there.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Photos Of ‘Russian-Supplied’ Battle Tanks In Libya Surface Online

On December 19 , Libyan activists shared on social media photos allegedly showing “ Russian-supplied ” battle tanks with the Libyan National Army ( LNA ) .
Activists said the battle tanks , several T-62MVs and at least one T-62M , were supplied by Russia because they carried “ Russian markings ” which were spotted before in Ukraine and Syria .
Tanks with similar markings were seen before with the LNA in Libya .
The T-62MV is an upgraded variant of the T-62 with the Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour , ERA .
While Russia may be the original source of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain .
Other countries which are purchasing older weapons for the LNA may be responsible .
Egypt supplied T-55s battle tanks for the LNA in the past .
One of the tanks , a variant developed by the Egyptian military , was seized by forces loyal to the Government of National Accord ( GNA ) in May .
Furthermore , recently it was revealed that the UAE supplied the LNA with Serbian-made LRSVM Morava modular self-propelled multiple rocket launchers .
Regardless of the real source of the battle tanks , the LNA appears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The LNA is likely preparing for a new round of clashes with forces of the GNA , which recently received an increased support from Turkey .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Turkish-backed Forces Are Preparing For New Military Escalation In Libya • Turkey Is Making Final Preparations To Deploy F-16 Fighter Jets In Libya ’ s Al-Watiya Air Base

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On December 19, Libyan activists shared on social media photos allegedly showing “Russian-supplied” battle tanks with the Libyan National Army (LNA).
Activists said the battle tanks, several T-62MVs and at least one T-62M, were supplied by Russia because they carried “Russian markings” which were spotted before in Ukraine and Syria. Tanks with similar markings were seen before with the LNA in Libya.
#Russian T-62MV tanks in the hands of #LNA , not the first time that i found proof of russian equipment in #Libya given to #Haftar directly , recently a whole batch has been recolored to saharah camo others are still green fresh from mother #Russia .#Libya pic.twitter.com/Ifkp41YBTe — Ouais Hasairi | ⵓⵓⴰⵉⵙ ⵀⴰⵙⴰⵉⵔⵉ | أويس الحصائري (@HasairiOuais) December 19, 2020
The T-62MV is an upgraded variant of the T-62 with the Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour, ERA.
While Russia may be the original source of these battle tanks, this is not certain. Other countries which are purchasing older weapons for the LNA may be responsible.
Egypt supplied T-55s battle tanks for the LNA in the past. One of the tanks, a variant developed by the Egyptian military, was seized by forces loyal to the Government of National Accord (GNA) in May.
Furthermore, recently it was revealed that the UAE supplied the LNA with Serbian-made LRSVM Morava modular self-propelled multiple rocket launchers.
Regardless of the real source of the battle tanks, the LNA appears to be increasing it offensive capability. The LNA is likely preparing for a new round of clashes with forces of the GNA, which recently received an increased support from Turkey.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Russian Forces Expand Presence In Syria’s Ain Issa Amid Clashes Between SDF And Turkish Proxies

On December 24 , the Russian Military Police established a new position in the vicinity of the town of Ain Issa .
The town is controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) .
According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) , the new position was built south of Ain Issa which is located in the northern Raqqa countryside .
The new Russian position was established amid heavy clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed militants north of Ain Issa .
Earlier today , Turkish forces resumed their strikes on the town .
“ Clashes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factions loyal to Turkey on the other renewed in the axes of the villages of Jahbal and al-Musharrafa , amid an exchange of rocket strikes , ” the SOHR said in a report .
The Russian Military Police was deployed in northeastern Syria in October of 2019 to observe a ceasefire reached after a Turkish attack on the region .
A coordination and operations center was established in Ain Issa .
The Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) also established a number of posts around the town .
Earlier this month , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the SDF establishing three joint observation posts north , east and west of Ain Issa .
The Russian-Syrian military buildup in Ain Issa is meant to deter Turkish forces , which are eyeing the town .
Last week , Ankara-backed militants attacked the town .
The attack , however , was a failure .
Turkish forces are allegedly preparing a large-scale attack on Ain Issa .
The SDF , which is running out of options , may eventually agree to hand the town over to the SAA .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Proxies In Iraqi Kurdistan – Report • New Wave Of Russian Airstrikes Hits Militants In Syria ’ s Lattakia ( Photos )

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On December 24, the Russian Military Police established a new position in the vicinity of the town of Ain Issa. The town is controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the new position was built south of Ain Issa which is located in the northern Raqqa countryside.
The new Russian position was established amid heavy clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed militants north of Ain Issa. Earlier today, Turkish forces resumed their strikes on the town.
“Clashes between the SDF on one side and factions loyal to Turkey on the other renewed in the axes of the villages of Jahbal and al-Musharrafa, amid an exchange of rocket strikes,” the SOHR said in a report.
The Russian Military Police was deployed in northeastern Syria in October of 2019 to observe a ceasefire reached after a Turkish attack on the region. A coordination and operations center was established in Ain Issa. The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) also established a number of posts around the town.
Earlier this month, a Russian brokered agreement saw the SAA and the SDF establishing three joint observation posts north, east and west of Ain Issa.
The Russian-Syrian military buildup in Ain Issa is meant to deter Turkish forces, which are eyeing the town. Last week, Ankara-backed militants attacked the town. The attack, however, was a failure.
Turkish forces are allegedly preparing a large-scale attack on Ain Issa. The SDF, which is running out of options, may eventually agree to hand the town over to the SAA.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Turkey Plans To Use Its Syrian Proxies In Iraqi Kurdistan – Report

Turkey is preparing to deploy its Syrian proxies in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region where it has been battling the Kurdistan Workers ’ Party ( PKK ) for decades , the Hawar News Agency ( ANHA ) reported on December 24 .
Sources familiar with the alleged plan told the Kurdish Syrian agency that Turkey will deploy militants from al-Qaeda ’ s Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham and the Turkistan Islamic Party who fought beside its forces in northern and northeastern Syria before .
The Syrian militants will reportedly be deployed in Haftanin , Kirkuk , Sinjar and Diyala , where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mobilization Units will be formed .
ANHA was one of the first outlets to reveal Turkey ’ s plans to send Syrian militants to Libya and later to Azerbaijan .
The agency is well informed on the movements of Ankara ’ s Syrian proxies .
Earlier this year , the Turkish military launched a number of operations against PKK cells in the Kurdistan Region .
The operations failed to neutralize the Kurdish guerrilla group ’ s threat .
Turkeyб which sent thousands of Syrian militants to fight for its interests in Libya and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them against the PKK in northern Iraq .
The role of these militants in Kurdistan may go beyond fighting to bring a demographic change in the Kurdish region .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • In Video : PKK Drone Drops Projectiles On Turkish Targets In Hakkari Province

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Turkey is preparing to deploy its Syrian proxies in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region where it has been battling the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) for decades, the Hawar News Agency (ANHA) reported on December 24.
Sources familiar with the alleged plan told the Kurdish Syrian agency that Turkey will deploy militants from al-Qaeda’s Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham and the Turkistan Islamic Party who fought beside its forces in northern and northeastern Syria before.
The Syrian militants will reportedly be deployed in Haftanin, Kirkuk, Sinjar and Diyala, where a new pro-Turkey coalition called the Turkistan Mobilization Units will be formed.
“The Turkish occupation wants to occupy border areas 8 to 14 km deep in southern Kurdistan, and to declare them a permanent safe zone,” ANHA quoted one of the sources as saying.
ANHA was one of the first outlets to reveal Turkey’s plans to send Syrian militants to Libya and later to Azerbaijan. The agency is well informed on the movements of Ankara’s Syrian proxies.
Earlier this year, the Turkish military launched a number of operations against PKK cells in the Kurdistan Region. The operations failed to neutralize the Kurdish guerrilla group’s threat.
Turkeyб which sent thousands of Syrian militants to fight for its interests in Libya and Azerbaijanб will not likely hesitate to use them against the PKK in northern Iraq. The role of these militants in Kurdistan may go beyond fighting to bring a demographic change in the Kurdish region.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Military Situation In Yemen On December 24, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen : • On December 23 @ @ @ @ @ Shan al-Jinn military camp with a missile • On December 23 , clashes between Ansar @ @ @ @ @ in the Raghwan area • The Liaison and Coordination Officers ’ Operations Room ( loyal @ @ @ @ @ 147 ceasefire violations in al-Hudaydah during the past 24 hours • On December 23 , @ @ @ @ @ airstrikes on the Shabaka area MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Houthis Showcase Their Ground @ @ @ @ @ Govt Is In Deep Crisis ( Map Update ) • Houthis Celebrate Christmas By Shooting @ @ @ @ @ Coalition • In Video : Yemeni Forces Shot Down Combat Drone Of Saudi-led Coalition

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen:
On December 23, Ansar Allah targeted the Shan al-Jinn military camp with a missile
On December 23, clashes between Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forced continued in the Raghwan area
The Liaison and Coordination Officers’ Operations Room (loyal to Ansar Allah) reported 147 ceasefire violations in al-Hudaydah during the past 24 hours
On December 23, Saudi-led coalition warplanes conducted 3 airstrikes on the Shabaka area
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southfront--2020-12-25--Turkish Bayraktar Announced New Concept Of Future-Generation  Drone

On December 22 , Chief Technology Officer of Baykar Makina Selcuk Bayraktar spoke about high technologies and innovations at the InnoWeek World Net Summit that took place in Azerbaijan .
Giving a speech about the important role of drones in the development of the startup ecosystem , including the national military-industrial movement , he presented a concept of the National Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle ( MIUS ) .
Currently MIUS System is under development by Baykar Makina .
The first flight of MIUS turbojet drone prototype is scheduled for 2023 .
“ Fifth-generation warplanes are being developed all around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is said that after the fifth generation , unmanned warplanes will begin their duty .
Our concept studies too had started long ago , but after we did AKINCI , we started to work on our unmanned warplane , which will be the future combat aircraft.
” – Bayraktar said .
While the features of the new system are kept in secret , Bayraktar unveiled its main characteristics : MIUS will be constructed to carry out strategic attacks , close air support , suppression/destruction of enemy air defence systems , and missile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most sophisticated drone built by Turkey is the Bayraktar Akinci .
Its preliminary design phase was completed in June 2019 .
In August 2019 , Akinci started engine ground run with a Ukrainian turboprop engine .
Dubbed “ the flying fish , ” it operates with two turbine engines and can carry nearly 1.5 tons in useful load : 900 kilograms external and 450 kilograms internal .
The drone can be controlled via domestically developed satellites .
Baykar Makina is leading Turkish UAV developer .
The company engages in engineering operations , software @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicles with the contribution of public and private sector players .
Its UAVs are manufactured at the facility in Istanbul .
In recent years , the Turkish defense industry has shown its big potential in the field of UAVs .
Several samples of different classes were created , put into service and brought to the international market .
For example , Turkish Bayraktar TB2 have been actively used by Azerbaijan during the Nagorno-Karabakh war and in some way assured its victory .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Russia Is Not Ready For @ @

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On December 22, Chief Technology Officer of Baykar Makina Selcuk Bayraktar spoke about high technologies and innovations at the InnoWeek World Net Summit that took place in Azerbaijan. Giving a speech about the important role of drones in the development of the startup ecosystem, including the national military-industrial movement, he presented a concept of the National Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (MIUS).
Currently MIUS System is under development by Baykar Makina. The first flight of MIUS turbojet drone prototype is scheduled for 2023.
“Fifth-generation warplanes are being developed all around the world, they are manned warplanes and it is said that after the fifth generation, unmanned warplanes will begin their duty. Our concept studies too had started long ago, but after we did AKINCI, we started to work on our unmanned warplane, which will be the future combat aircraft.” – Bayraktar said.
While the features of the new system are kept in secret, Bayraktar unveiled its main characteristics:
an operational altitude of 40,000 feet;
4-5 hours of flight time;
approximately 3.5 tons of take-off weight;
1-ton ammunition capacity;
turbofan propulsion system;
0.8 Mach cruise speed;
ATCOM Data Network that means satellite communication capability.
MIUS will be constructed to carry out strategic attacks, close air support, suppression/destruction of enemy air defence systems, and missile attack missions.
To date, the most sophisticated drone built by Turkey is the Bayraktar Akinci. Its preliminary design phase was completed in June 2019. In August 2019, Akinci started engine ground run with a Ukrainian turboprop engine. Dubbed “the flying fish,” it operates with two turbine engines and can carry nearly 1.5 tons in useful load: 900 kilograms external and 450 kilograms internal. The drone can be controlled via domestically developed satellites.
Baykar Makina is leading Turkish UAV developer. The company engages in engineering operations, software, communication systems and design of air vehicles with the contribution of public and private sector players. Its UAVs are manufactured at the facility in Istanbul.
In recent years, the Turkish defense industry has shown its big potential in the field of UAVs. Several samples of different classes were created, put into service and brought to the international market. For example, Turkish Bayraktar TB2 have been actively used by Azerbaijan during the Nagorno-Karabakh war and in some way assured its victory.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Baghdad On Alert: PMF Announced General Mobilization

Iranian-backed militia Asa ’ ib Ahl al-Haq , that is part of the Popular Mobilization Forces , announced the general @ @ @ @ @ release of one of its leaders , who was arrested by the Iraqi intelligence Service @ @ @ @ @ zone ” in Baghdad .
The attack on Baghdad took place on December 20 .
@ @ @ @ @ area activated their C-RAM ( Counter rocket , artillery , and mortar ) systems to @ @ @ @ @ launched on the Green Zone .
Nonetheless , at least a part of them fell @ @ @ @ @ the claims of Asa ’ ib Ahl al-Haq , fighters from insurgent faction Quwaat al-Zulfiqar @ @ @ @ @ Baghdad and Asaib Ahl al-Haq special forces personnel have taken positions in the Al-Rusafa area @ @ @ @ @ ON THE TOPIC : • U.S .
Sends Nuclear Submarine And Guided-Missile Destroyers To Persian @

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Iranian-backed militia Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, that is part of the Popular Mobilization Forces, announced the general mobilization. It demanded the release of one of its leaders, who was arrested by the Iraqi intelligence Service for attacking the “Green zone” in Baghdad.
The attack on Baghdad took place on December 20. US forces deployed in the area activated their C-RAM (Counter rocket, artillery, and mortar) systems to intercept multiple rockets that were launched on the Green Zone. Nonetheless, at least a part of them fell in the area.
After the claims of Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, fighters from insurgent faction Quwaat al-Zulfiqar have reportedly been deployed in Baghdad and Asaib Ahl al-Haq special forces personnel have taken positions in the Al-Rusafa area of eastern Baghdad.
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southfront--2020-12-25--In Video: Rockets Targeted Israeli City Of Ashkelon

Two rockets targeted southern Israeli city of Ashkelon .
The Israeli air defense system “ Iron dome ” intercepted both @ @ @ @ @ launched from the Gaza strip .
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Two rockets targeted southern Israeli city of Ashkelon. The Israeli air defense system “Iron dome” intercepted both targets. The rockets were launched from the Gaza strip.
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southfront--2020-12-25--More Russian Military Equipment, Helicopters Deployed In Ain Issa Amid Turkish Proxies Advance

Another Russian military convoy arrived to Ain Issa in the northern Raqqa governorate .
The reinforcements were deployed amid the fierce clashes between the Syrian Defense Forces and Turkish-backed militants in the outskirts of the town .
The military convoy was spotted on its route to one of the joint observation posts that have been recently established by the Syrians Arab Army and the Syrian Defense Forces .
Russian forces also have a coordination and operations center in Ain Issa and a newly established position in its souther outskirts .
The military convoy included a number of armored vehicles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ M65 , Tiger-M , and armored personnel carrier ambulance Lens .
The convoy was moving under the shelter of Russian helicopters Mi-8 and Mi-35 .
It is the second Russian military convoy sent to Ain Issa over two days .
According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights , on December 24 , a convoy of at least 22 Russian military trucks arrived at Ain Issa .
Despite the increasing Russian presence in the region , Turkish-backed militants do not call off their attacks on the northern outskirts of Ain Issa , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shut off the traffic between the Syrian largest cities .
Russian military forces along with the SDF and the SAA soldiers are preparing to the next ground attack by the Turkish-backed militants on Ain Issa .
Their last tentative to take control over the town was repelled .
In order to prevent the Turkish advance , Russia was reportedly pressuring the SDF to hand Ain Issa and its outskirts over to government forces .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Russia Dispatch Reinforcements To Syria ’ s Ain Issa As Turkish Tanks Hammer @ @

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Another Russian military convoy arrived to Ain Issa in the northern Raqqa governorate. The reinforcements were deployed amid the fierce clashes between the Syrian Defense Forces and Turkish-backed militants in the outskirts of the town.
The military convoy was spotted on its route to one of the joint observation posts that have been recently established by the Syrians Arab Army and the Syrian Defense Forces. Russian forces also have a coordination and operations center in Ain Issa and a newly established position in its souther outskirts.
The military convoy included a number of armored vehicles, among them – Typhoon-K, Iveco LMV M65, Tiger-M, and armored personnel carrier ambulance Lens. The convoy was moving under the shelter of Russian helicopters Mi-8 and Mi-35.
It is the second Russian military convoy sent to Ain Issa over two days. According to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, on December 24, a convoy of at least 22 Russian military trucks arrived at Ain Issa.
Despite the increasing Russian presence in the region, Turkish-backed militants do not call off their attacks on the northern outskirts of Ain Issa, aiming to capture the M-4 highway and shut off the traffic between the Syrian largest cities.
Russian military forces along with the SDF and the SAA soldiers are preparing to the next ground attack by the Turkish-backed militants on Ain Issa. Their last tentative to take control over the town was repelled. In order to prevent the Turkish advance, Russia was reportedly pressuring the SDF to hand Ain Issa and its outskirts over to government forces.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Russian Warplanes Pounding Turkish Proxies In Greater Idlib

On December 24 and 25 , warplanes of the Russian Aerospace Forces carried out a series of airstrikes on positions of Turkish-backed militant groups in northern Lattakia .
A large part of the airstrikes targeted the outskirts of the town of Kabani .
Photos shared by opposition activists show smoke rising from several hills in the town ’ s vicinity , where a complex network of tunnels , trenches and fortifications were built over the last two years .
Kabani is a well-known stronghold of al-Qaeda-affiliated groups – Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham , the Turkistan Islamic Army and Ajnad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airstrikes on Kabani coincided with intense shelling by the Syrian Army on the southern Idlib countryside .
Syrian troops also targeted a vehicle of militants in western Idlib with an anti-tank guided missile .
This is not the first round of air and artillery strikes on positions of militants in the southern part of the Idlib de-escalation zone .
Last week , Syrian forces and Russian warplanes delivered over 100 strikes on different targets .
Pro-militant sources link these developments with the recent deployment of the Syrian Army reinforcements in the al-Ghab Plains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the preparations for an offensive operation there .
Meanwhile , reports appeared that following the successful cases in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh , Turkey is considering to use its Syrian proxies in northern Iraq .
Members of Turkish-backed militant groups proved themselves as useful cannon fodder taking the main casualties as Turkish special forces , artillery and air power deal with their opponents .
This time , Turkish proxies will get a chance to sacrifice their lives in the battle against the PKK .

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On December 24 and 25, warplanes of the Russian Aerospace Forces carried out a series of airstrikes on positions of Turkish-backed militant groups in northern Lattakia.
A large part of the airstrikes targeted the outskirts of the town of Kabani. Photos shared by opposition activists show smoke rising from several hills in the town’s vicinity, where a complex network of tunnels, trenches and fortifications were built over the last two years. Kabani is a well-known stronghold of al-Qaeda-affiliated groups – Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, the Turkistan Islamic Army and Ajnad al-Kavkaz.
The new wave of Russian airstrikes on Kabani coincided with intense shelling by the Syrian Army on the southern Idlib countryside. Syrian troops also targeted a vehicle of militants in western Idlib with an anti-tank guided missile.
This is not the first round of air and artillery strikes on positions of militants in the southern part of the Idlib de-escalation zone. Last week, Syrian forces and Russian warplanes delivered over 100 strikes on different targets.
Pro-militant sources link these developments with the recent deployment of the Syrian Army reinforcements in the al-Ghab Plains claiming that this is a part of the preparations for an offensive operation there.
Meanwhile, reports appeared that following the successful cases in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh, Turkey is considering to use its Syrian proxies in northern Iraq. Members of Turkish-backed militant groups proved themselves as useful cannon fodder taking the main casualties as Turkish special forces, artillery and air power deal with their opponents. This time, Turkish proxies will get a chance to sacrifice their lives in the battle against the PKK.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Merry Christmas: Probable Terrorist Attack Took Place In Nashville, USA (Videos)

According to local Metro police , the car exploded on 2nd Avenue in the early Christmas morning , at about @ @ @ @ @ The explosion caused no casualties , but three people were reportedly injured and taken to @ @ @ @ @ damage was caused .
Windows were broken in many houses , as well as heavy @ @ @ @ @ area .
Metro police and firefighters are working in the area .
People were asked @ @ @ @ @ blocks away due to concerns about any other explosions .
Local police stated that the @ @ @ @ @ Actually , the incident is under investigation by Metro police and federal authorities .
MORE @ @ @ @

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On December 25, a large explosion rocked downtown Nashville, Tennessee.
According to local Metro police, the car exploded on 2nd Avenue in the early Christmas morning, at about 6: 30 a.m.
An explosion linked to a vehicle occurred at 6:30 this morning outside 166 2nd Ave N downtown. Investigation active by MNPD & federal partners. — Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) December 25, 2020
These are pictures from 2nd Avenue south. Windows were broken out from explosion area to Broadway. Please AVOID this area! Media staging is at 2nd Avenue south and KVB. pic.twitter.com/tocdpHWFgj — Nashville Fire Dept (@NashvilleFD) December 25, 2020
The explosion caused no casualties, but three people were reportedly injured and taken to the hospital. Significant material damage was caused. Windows were broken in many houses, as well as heavy smoke was seen in the area.
Metro police and firefighters are working in the area. People were asked to move at least two blocks away due to concerns about any other explosions.
Local police stated that the explosion was probably intentional. Actually, the incident is under investigation by Metro police and federal authorities.
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southfront--2020-12-25--Recent Israeli Strikes Targeted Research Center In Syria’s Masyaf, Killing 6 – SOHR

According to the reports by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) , the recent Israeli strikes on Masyaf countryside in the western Hama governorate caused human loses and significant material damage .
The missiles , which were fired from Lebanese airspace , allegedly hit positions held by Iran-backed militias in the Masyaf district of Hama province .
The strikes allegedly targeted a government-run research center , where surface-to-surface missiles are developed and stored .
Iranian experts are believed to work there .
Among the other targets was the al-Talae ’ training camp in Sheikh Ghadban area in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reliable sources ” , SOHR indicated that the strikes had claimed lives of six people who were not Syrians and injured others .
However , SOHR claims are yet to be verified .
The London-based observatory is known to falsify the information concerning the Iranian-backed militants in Syria .
The Syrian Ministry of Defense issued a statement saying that Syrian air defenses “ confronted the enemy missiles and intercepted most of them ” , without reporting any casualties .
“ Our air defenses intercepted an Israeli attack on the Masyaf area , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also a video spread by Syrian State TV reportedly showing Syrian air defense system preventing Israeli attack .
The Israel Defense Forces did not comment on the recent strikes , maintaining a policy of ambiguity regarding its activities in Syria , as usual .
The Masyaf area has reportedly been targeted by Israel many times .
The last attack was carried out on June 4 , when a series of Israeli airstrikes targeted a sensitive military research facility .
The previous time , the airstrikes were also launched from Lebanon ’ s airspace @ @ @ @ @ @

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According to the reports by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the recent Israeli strikes on Masyaf countryside in the western Hama governorate caused human loses and significant material damage. The missiles, which were fired from Lebanese airspace, allegedly hit positions held by Iran-backed militias in the Masyaf district of Hama province.
“Israeli missiles coming from over Lebanese territory have destroyed warehouses and manufacturing centers for short and medium-range missiles belonging to Iranian militias in the scientific research area, the “Defense Factories”, within the area of Al-Zawiya in Masyaf countryside.” – SOHR report reads.
The strikes allegedly targeted a government-run research center, where surface-to-surface missiles are developed and stored. Iranian experts are believed to work there. Among the other targets was the al-Talae’ training camp in Sheikh Ghadban area in the same Masyaf countryside.
Citing “reliable sources”, SOHR indicated that the strikes had claimed lives of six people who were not Syrians and injured others. However, SOHR claims are yet to be verified. The London-based observatory is known to falsify the information concerning the Iranian-backed militants in Syria.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense issued a statement saying that Syrian air defenses “confronted the enemy missiles and intercepted most of them”, without reporting any casualties.
“Our air defenses intercepted an Israeli attack on the Masyaf area,” SANA news agency stated.
There was also a video spread by Syrian State TV reportedly showing Syrian air defense system preventing Israeli attack.
The Israel Defense Forces did not comment on the recent strikes, maintaining a policy of ambiguity regarding its activities in Syria, as usual.
The Masyaf area has reportedly been targeted by Israel many times. The last attack was carried out on June 4, when a series of Israeli airstrikes targeted a sensitive military research facility. The previous time, the airstrikes were also launched from Lebanon’s airspace.
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southfront--2020-12-26--Houthi Naval Mine Struck Commercial Vessel In Red Sea: Saudi-led Coalition (Photos)

The Saudi-led coalition announced on December 25 that a naval mine laid by the Houthis , also known as Ansar Allah , had struck a small commercial vessel in the Red Sea .
In a statement , the coalition said the vessel ’ s front was slightly damaged as a result of the mine explosion .
No human losses were reported .
The Saudi-led coalition noted that the Houthis are laying more mines in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait .
The coalition described these acts as a “ dangerous threat to international navigation and trade.
” The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ destroyed 175 naval mines laid by the Houthis in Yemen ’ s waters since the outbreak of the war in 2015 .
The mines were allegedly of the Iranian-made “ Sadaf ” type .
Over the last two months , the Houthis stepped up their naval operations against Saudi Arabia .
On November 25 , the Houthis targeted a Greek-managed oil tanker in a Saudi petroleum terminal located near the city of Jeddah .
Later on December 14 , a Singapore-flagged tanker was attacked in the port of Jeddah .
In both attacks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explosive devices .
The group is allegedly manufacturing these bomb-laden boats with Iranian help .
The Houthis ’ increasing operations in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait pose a serious challenge to the Saudi-led coalition .
Saudi naval forces are failing to secure the Kingdom ’ s waters .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Houthis Celebrate Christmas By Shooting Down Combat Drones Of Saudi-led Coalition

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The Saudi-led coalition announced on December 25 that a naval mine laid by the Houthis, formally known as Ansar Allah, struck a small commercial vessel in the Red Sea.
In a statement, the coalition said the vessel’s front was slightly damaged as a result of the mine explosion. No human losses were reported.
The Saudi-led coalition noted that the Houthis have been laying even more mines in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The coalition described these acts as a “dangerous threat to international navigation and trade.”
The coalition claims that its naval forces have destroyed 175 naval mines laid by the Houthis in Yemen’s waters since the outbreak of the war in 2015. The mines were allegedly of the Iranian-made “Sadaf” type.
During the last two months, the Houthis stepped up their naval operations against Saudi Arabia. On November 25, the Houthis targeted a Greek-managed oil tanker in a Saudi petroleum terminal located near the city of Jeddah. Later on December 14, a Singapore-flagged tanker was attacked in the port of Jeddah.
In both attacks, the Houthis used remotely-controlled water-born improvised explosive devices. The group is allegedly manufacturing these bomb-laden boats with Iranian help.
The Houthis’ increasing operations in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait pose a serious challenge to the Saudi-led coalition. Saudi naval forces have failed to secure the Kingdom’s waters.
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southfront--2020-12-26--Military Situation In Syria On December 26, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria : • On December 26 @ @ @ @ @ militants violated the ceasefire regime in Greater Idlib 32 times : 15 – in Idlib @ @ @ @ @ Latakia province , 5 – in Hama province ; • On December 25 , heavy @ @ @ @ @ Forces ( SDF ) and Turkish-backed forces were reported in Mushairafa and Jahbal areas , @ @ @ @ @ • On December 26 , artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions near Ain Issa @ @ @ @ @ , artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions east of Raas al-Ain ; • On @ @ @ @ @ struck ISIS positions in the Bushri mountain 5 times ; • On December 25 , @ @ @ @ @ ) artillery shelled positions of Turkish-backed forces north of Lattakia ; • On December 25 @ @ @ @ @ entered Syria via the Kafr Lusin crossing .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Syria:
On December 26, Russia reported that Idlib militants violated the ceasefire regime in Greater Idlib 32 times: 15 – in Idlib province, 12 – in Latakia province, 5 – in Hama province;
On December 25, heavy clashes between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Turkish-backed forces were reported in Mushairafa and Jahbal areas, according to SDF sources;
On December 26, artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions near Ain Issa;
On December 25, artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions east of Raas al-Ain;
On December 25, Russian warplanes struck ISIS positions in the Bushri mountain 5 times;
On December 25, Syrian Arab Army (SAA) artillery shelled positions of Turkish-backed forces north of Lattakia;
On December 25, a Turkish military convoy entered Syria via the Kafr Lusin crossing.
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southfront--2020-12-26--ISIS Cells Blew Up Another Gas Pipeline In Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula (Video)

On December 25 , ISIS claimed responsibility for an attack on another gas pipeline in the Sinai Peninsula in eastern Egypt .
The attack , which took place a day earlier , targeted the main pipeline suppling the city of Arish in North Sinai with gas .
Residents of the city shared on social media videos showing large flames rising from the pipeline .
In a statement published by its news agency Amaq , ISIS said its cells blew up Arish ’ s main gas pipeline using several improvised explosive devices .
Governor of North Sinai Mohamed Abdel-Fadil Shousha said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplies to Arish , its industrial zone or the nearby power station .
The large fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters and workers of the Egyptian Natural Gas Company .
According to Shousha , Egyptian security forces launched an investigation into the attack and are now combing the surroundings of the pipeline .
This was not the first such attack by ISIS cells .
On November 19 , the terrorists blew up the al-Arish-al-Qantara gas pipeline in North Sinai .
The ISIS influence in the Sinai Peninsula appears to be growing once again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bigger , bolder attacks , despite the immense efforts by Egyptian government forces .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Egypt Announces Preemptive Strikes On Militants Deployed Near Border , In Eastern Libya ( Video )

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On December 25, ISIS claimed responsibility for an attack on another gas pipeline in the Sinai Peninsula in eastern Egypt.
The attack, which took place a day earlier, targeted the main pipeline suppling the city of Arish in North Sinai with gas. Residents of the city shared on social media videos showing large flames rising from the pipeline.
In a statement published by its news agency Amaq, ISIS said its cells blew up Arish’s main gas pipeline using several improvised explosive devices.
Governor of North Sinai Mohamed Abdel-Fadil Shousha said the attack didn’t effect gas supplies to Arish, its industrial zone or the nearby power station. The large fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters and workers of the Egyptian Natural Gas Company.
According to Shousha, Egyptian security forces launched an investigation into the attack and are now combing the surroundings of the pipeline.
This was not the first such attack by ISIS cells. On November 19, the terrorists blew up the al-Arish-al-Qantara gas pipeline in North Sinai.
The ISIS influence in the Sinai Peninsula appears to be growing once again. The terrorist group is carrying out bigger, bolder attacks, despite the immense efforts by Egyptian government forces.
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southfront--2020-12-26--Syrian Army Deployed Heavy Weapons Near SDF-Held Manbij (Videos)

The Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) has deployed heavy weapons in the vicinity of the town of Manbij in the northern Aleppo countryside .
On December 25 , the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights released a video showing howitzers and multiple rocket launchers of the army deployed in fortified positions in Manbij .
The London-based monitoring group said the SAA is also building new fortifications .
A second video released by the SHOR shows a large base of the Russian Military Police also located in the vicinity of Manbij city .
No unusual activities were spotted there .
Manbij @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frontline with Turkish-occupied areas in northern Aleppo , is under control of the Syrian Democratic Forces ( SDF ) .
In 2018 , several units of the SAA and the Russian Military Police were deployed in the vicinity of the city to deter Turkish forces , which were preparing to launch a large-scale attack on it .
The SDF local branch , the Manbij Military Council , enjoys excellent relations with the SAA .
In the past two years , the two forces fought alongside each other on several occasions , repelling a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infiltrations by Turkish-backed militants .
The deployment of heavy weapons around Manbij may be a sign of a nearing Turkish attack on the city .
Earlier this month , Turkish forces carried out a failed attack on SDF positions in the town of Ain Issa in the northern Raqqa countryside .
Manbij could be their next target .
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You can read this article in German. LINK
The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has deployed heavy weapons in the vicinity of the town of Manbij in the northern Aleppo countryside.
On December 25, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights released a video showing howitzers and multiple rocket launchers of the army deployed in fortified positions in Manbij. The London-based monitoring group said the SAA is also building new fortifications.
A second video released by the SHOR shows a large base of the Russian Military Police also located in the vicinity of Manbij city. No unusual activities were spotted there.
Manbij city, which is located along the frontline with Turkish-occupied areas in northern Aleppo, is under control of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
In 2018, several units of the SAA and the Russian Military Police were deployed in the vicinity of the city to deter Turkish forces, which were preparing to launch a large-scale attack on it.
The SDF local branch, the Manbij Military Council, enjoys excellent relations with the SAA. In the past two years, the two forces fought alongside each other on several occasions, repelling a number of small attacks and foiling many infiltrations by Turkish-backed militants.
The deployment of heavy weapons around Manbij may be a sign of a nearing Turkish attack on the city. Earlier this month, Turkish forces carried out a failed attack on SDF positions in the town of Ain Issa in the northern Raqqa countryside. Manbij could be their next target.
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southfront--2020-12-26--At Least 220 Killed In Ethiopia’s Ethnic Massacre, At Least 42 Militants

On December 23rd , at least 220 have reportedly been killed following an ethnic massacre in Ethiopia , a Red Cross volunteer has said .
This is the same incident from previous reports that said that at least 102 had been killed back on December 23rd , in Ethiopia ’ s western region of Benishangul-Gumuz .
Homes were torched in the massacre that took place in Bekoji in Bulen county in the Metekel zone that borders Sudan , amid rising ethnic tensions .
The death toll was originally estimated to be more than 100 by the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ volunteers for the Red Cross , said that the organisation had buried the bodies of 207 victims and 15 attackers .
A Bulen county spokesman confirmed 207 people were killed and that 40,000 more had fled their homes due to the fighting .
Reuters reported that the military were then sent in before killing 42 armed men accused of being behind the attack .
Fana TV , citing regional officials , reported that soldiers seized bows , arrows and other weapons in the raid .
Ethiopia ’ s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an area which has seen regular ethnic violence .
The state-run Ethiopian News Agency said five senior local officials were also arrested y in connection with security issues in the Benishangul-Gumuz region .
Abiy and senior officials had visited the region on December 22nd to call for calm after multiple deadly attacks in recent months , such as a November 14 assault in which gunmen targeted a bus and killed 34 people .
“ We have been hearing this for more than a month now .
The ethnic conflict in Ethiopia has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comprehensive solution as we have seen they are not going to be contained by command like the government has attempted to do in the past , ” Ethiopian researcher and lawyer Mastewal Taddese said .
Amnesty International , which spoke with five survivors , said members of the ethnic Gumuz community attacked the homes of ethnic Amhara , Oromo and Shinasha people , setting them on fire and stabbing and shooting residents .
The Gumuz see minorities as “ settlers ” , the rights group said , adding that dozens of people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ahmed called the attack a “ massacre ” and deployed federal troops there the next day .
The military killed 42 armed men accused of attacking the village .
Ethiopia has been grappling with outbreaks of deadly violence since Abiy was appointed in 2018 and accelerated political reforms that loosened the state ’ s iron grip on regional rivalries .
Elections due next June have further inflamed rivalries over land , power and resources .
“ The massacre of civilians in Benishangul Gumuz is a tragedy .
I am deeply saddened by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts to solve the problem in various ways have not yielded the desired results .
The goal of our enemies is to disperse the powerful forces we wield against the Junta .
This will not work .
The government has taken the necessary steps to address the root causes .
I urge all of us to work as hard as we can to achieve the desired results.
” The war for the Tigray region , against the Tigray People ’ s Liberation Front ( TPLF ) was reportedly concluded in victory for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clashes continue sporadically , at the same time ethnic tensions appear to be on the breaking point and attacks such as these are beginning to happen , once again .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • At Least 102 Killed After Prime Minister ’ s Visit In Latest Ethiopian Ethnic Massacre

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On December 23rd, at least 220 have reportedly been killed following an ethnic massacre in Ethiopia, a Red Cross volunteer has said.
This is the same incident from previous reports that said that at least 102 had been killed back on December 23rd, in Ethiopia’s western region of Benishangul-Gumuz.
Homes were torched in the massacre that took place in Bekoji in Bulen county in the Metekel zone that borders Sudan, amid rising ethnic tensions.
The death toll was originally estimated to be more than 100 by the state-appointed Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.
But Melese Mesfin, who volunteers for the Red Cross, said that the organisation had buried the bodies of 207 victims and 15 attackers.
A Bulen county spokesman confirmed 207 people were killed and that 40,000 more had fled their homes due to the fighting.
Reuters reported that the military were then sent in before killing 42 armed men accused of being behind the attack.
Fana TV, citing regional officials, reported that soldiers seized bows, arrows and other weapons in the raid.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said forces were deployed to the region, an area which has seen regular ethnic violence.
“The massacre of civilians in Benishangul-Gumuz region is very tragic,” Abiy said on Twitter. “The government, to solve the root causes of the problem, has deployed a necessary force.”
The state-run Ethiopian News Agency said five senior local officials were also arrested y in connection with security issues in the Benishangul-Gumuz region.
Abiy and senior officials had visited the region on December 22nd to call for calm after multiple deadly attacks in recent months, such as a November 14 assault in which gunmen targeted a bus and killed 34 people.
“We have been hearing this for more than a month now. The ethnic conflict in Ethiopia has been regular and there has to be a comprehensive solution as we have seen they are not going to be contained by command like the government has attempted to do in the past,” Ethiopian researcher and lawyer Mastewal Taddese said.
Amnesty International, which spoke with five survivors, said members of the ethnic Gumuz community attacked the homes of ethnic Amhara, Oromo and Shinasha people, setting them on fire and stabbing and shooting residents.
The Gumuz see minorities as “settlers”, the rights group said, adding that dozens of people are still unaccounted for.
Ethiopia will hold a parliamentary election on June 5, 2021, according to the Ethiopian National Electoral Board;
At least 66 people died, 39 others were injured, several houses and other properties were burned and more than 1,000 people were displaced during clashes in Konso;
On December 24, clashes between the Sudanese Army and Ethiopian forces erupted near the Matame border area;
The death toll of attack in Benishangul-Gumuz grew to 222 people, according to the Red Cross.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called the attack a “massacre” and deployed federal troops there the next day. The military killed 42 armed men accused of attacking the village.
Ethiopia has been grappling with outbreaks of deadly violence since Abiy was appointed in 2018 and accelerated political reforms that loosened the state’s iron grip on regional rivalries.
Elections due next June have further inflamed rivalries over land, power and resources.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed issued a statement on Twitter condemning the tragedy:
“The massacre of civilians in Benishangul Gumuz is a tragedy. I am deeply saddened by the inhumane treatment of our people. Our efforts to solve the problem in various ways have not yielded the desired results. The goal of our enemies is to disperse the powerful forces we wield against the Junta. This will not work. The government has taken the necessary steps to address the root causes. I urge all of us to work as hard as we can to achieve the desired results.”
The war for the Tigray region, against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) was reportedly concluded in victory for the central government’s forces, but clashes continue sporadically, at the same time ethnic tensions appear to be on the breaking point and attacks such as these are beginning to happen, once again.
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southfront--2020-12-26--IRGC Deploys SAM To Defend Nuclear Sites Amid U.S. Strike Concerns: Reports

Iran is strengthening air defense systems located near its nuclear facilities as a precaution against possible US missile strikes , the Kuwaiti Al-Qabas newspaper reported on December 24th .
These reports come amid increased tensions , with many expecting US President Donald Trump to order a “ farewell strike ” on Iran , in his last few weeks in office .
Currently , the USS Georgia nuclear submarine , and two US guided-missile destroyers are in the Persian Gulf .
Previously , a missile barrage struck near the US Embassy in Baghdad , slightly damaging the building , and this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of State Mike Pompeo blamed Tehran , and the US Central Command said the attack “ was almost certainly conducted by an Iranian-backed rogue militia group.
” Iran ’ s foreign minister Javad Zarif dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump ’ s allegations that Tehran was behind the recent rocket attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad .
According to the Kuwaiti newspaper , Tehran has built up air defense systems and radar locators of the aerospace forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps ( IRGC ) to protect the facilities vital for Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at disrupting the uranium enrichment process .
In particular , the precaution is taken in Isfahan province , where the Natanz uranium enrichment plant is located .
The site in Fordo , also is under protection .
Sources told Al-Qabas that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard had deployed a ‘ Power 737 ’ missile system as well as Russian ‘ SAM ’ air defence missiles in the vicinity of both sites .
In a tweet this morning , Iran ’ s foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Trump will “ bear full responsibility for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Currently , there is no confirmation of the deployments of air defense systems , but tensions are at a boiling point , and the slightest misstep may have substantial consequences .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • U.S. Navy Releases Video Of Its Nuclear Submarine , As Trump Threatens Iran On Twitter

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Iran is strengthening air defense systems located near its nuclear facilities as a precaution against possible US missile strikes, the Kuwaiti Al-Qabas newspaper reported on December 24th.
These reports come amid increased tensions, with many expecting US President Donald Trump to order a “farewell strike” on Iran, in his last few weeks in office.
Currently, the USS Georgia nuclear submarine, and two US guided-missile destroyers are in the Persian Gulf.
Previously, a missile barrage struck near the US Embassy in Baghdad, slightly damaging the building, and this was blamed on Iran.
…Some friendly health advice to Iran: If one American is killed, I will hold Iran responsible. Think it over. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 23, 2020
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo blamed Tehran, and the US Central Command said the attack “was almost certainly conducted by an Iranian-backed rogue militia group.”
Iran’s foreign minister Javad Zarif dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s allegations that Tehran was behind the recent rocket attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
“Putting your own citizens at risk abroad won’t divert attention from catastrophic failures at home,” Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted.
Putting your own citizens at risk abroad won't divert attention from catastrophic failures at home. In your own words @realDonaldTrump: pic.twitter.com/kbtL8GWLHm — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) December 24, 2020
According to the Kuwaiti newspaper, Tehran has built up air defense systems and radar locators of the aerospace forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to protect the facilities vital for Iran’s nuclear program from strikes aimed at disrupting the uranium enrichment process.
In particular, the precaution is taken in Isfahan province, where the Natanz uranium enrichment plant is located. The site in Fordo, also is under protection.
Sources told Al-Qabas that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard had deployed a ‘Power 737’ missile system as well as Russian ‘SAM’ air defence missiles in the vicinity of both sites.
In a tweet this morning, Iran’s foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Trump will “bear full responsibility for any adventurism on his way out”.
He added: “Last time, the US ruined our region over WMD fabrications, wasting $7 trillion & causing 58,976 American casualties”.
.@realDonaldTrump uses a worthless photo to recklessly accuse Iran. Last time, the US ruined our region over WMD fabrications, wasting $7 TRILLION & causing 58,976 American casualties. FAR WORSE this time. Trump will bear full responsibility for any adventurism on his way out. pic.twitter.com/scCeSwjUmE — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) December 24, 2020
Currently, there is no confirmation of the deployments of air defense systems, but tensions are at a boiling point, and the slightest misstep may have substantial consequences.
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