Russian military buildup continues in Syria

Russia is pressing ahead with its military buildup in Syria and has sent armored personnel carriers, tank landing ships and a small contingent of troops into the war-ravaged nation in recent days, a US official told AFP on Wednesday.

Russia's activity is focused on Bassel al-Assad International Airport, south of Latakia on Syria's Mediterranean coast, and at the Russian naval facility in Tartus.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that over the past day or so, another Antonov-124 Condor military carrier had flown into the airport, bringing the total number of transport flights to at least four in recent days.

Additionally, two tank landing ships have arrived at Tartus and about a dozen Russian armored personnel carriers are at the Bassel al-Assad airport, named after the older brother of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

The official said "scores" of Russian naval infantry had arrived in Syria, but their role was probably to protect incoming military hardware rather than carry out any sort of boots-on-the-ground deployment.

"We've seen scores there," the official said. "There certainly are some troops there."

The official said there was no immediate indication Russia had sent in any ordinance or heavy weaponry. A US military official said "under 50" Russian troops had arrived.

AFP reported Tuesday that Russia has also installed modular housing units -- enough for "hundreds" of people -- at the airport, as well as portable air traffic control equipment.

US officials say Russia's intentions are unclear, including whether it plans to attack IS fighters in Syria or just try to prop up Assad by striking rebel groups.

Syria has denied reports of increased military activity by Russian troops on its soil and Russia insists that any deliveries are in keeping with traditional links to its long-time ally.

The development could further complicate the tangled situation in Syria, at a time when US-led coalition forces continue to strike Islamic State jihadists in the country.

Russia is facing logistical hurdles in flying military equipment to Syria. Bulgaria said it refused permission late last week to an unspecified number of Russian aircraft to cross its airspace between September 1 and 24, angering Moscow.

But Bulgaria said Wednesday it would allow Syria-bound Russian planes over its airspace, but only if Moscow agrees to let it inspect the cargo.

Source: AFP