New satellite imagery shows that Russia’s air combat power in Syria has exploded over the last 48 hours, with 12 Su-25 Frogtfoots a A dozen Russianthere now as well.

This brings Russia’s air combat element in the war torn country up to around 40 or so aircraft. This is a very formidable force with capabilities ranging from troop transport, deep strike, reconnaissance, counter-air and especially close air support capabilities, of which the Su-25 is very roughly equivalent to Russia’s version of an A-10 Warthog. In addition to the fighter, attack, and vertical lift aviation assets, the Russians also are said to be launching Predator sized drones out of the base.

Su-24s supposedly spotted into tow of an Il-76 tanker-transport yesterday

In addition, Latakia Air Base, the growing Russian outpost where all this air power is housed, is said to be guarded by Panstir-S1 point air defense surface-to-air missile and cannon systems. Ground forces have also increased to about 500 soldiers, backed by dozens of armored personnel carriers, nine T-90 main battle tanks and assorted artillery.

Russian Su-24M attack aircraft of which a dozen are supposedly in Syria now

Simply put, Russia’s force is Syria is no joke

And it’s still growing.

There has been a sudden wave of speculation and fragmented reporting on the possibility that Russia

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