"Two system batteries are even in service in
Greece (thus the system is well known to NATO)."
The significance here is that earlier this summer, the IAF flew over Greece and a mock raid on Iran airspace.
"Russia relates to the export of arms as a political tool, not just an economic end. Russia is currently making great
efforts to upgrade its international standing, including through
demonstrations of assertive foreign policy. In this context, the export of arms is designed to enhance Russian influence in regions where Russia
competes for influence, in particular with the United States. Russia's current political and economic weakness is also decidely a factor in these
considerations."
It is precisely the weakness combined with needed finances that makes the present situation so dangerous.
When a nation is strong, it can afford to take a hit here and there. But when weak, politically or monetarily, the perceived strike cannot be
tolerated. Prediction: the ties with Iran (nuclear and arms) will drag Russia into a catastrophe. But not before the concerned powers have
sufficiently weakened the U.S./U.K. to the extent that the advances on the M.East will only bring a weak verbal response from NATO (or former NATO)
forces.
www.inss.org.il
(visit the link for the full news article)
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