"We have taken into account all possible threats. We have sent not only fighters, attack aircraft, bombers, and helicopters, but also missile defense systems because any sort of force majeure situation may occur. For example, the stealing of a warplane in a neighboring country with Syria or having to return fire. We need to be prepared for that," Bondarev said.
The principle of full protection of Russian forces in Syria, including the use of missile defense systems, is part of the constructive approach to the situation in the country and neighboring countries, according to Vladimir Anokhin, deputy director of the Academy of Geopolitical Problems.
"The deployment of missile defense systems around the Russian air force unit in Syria is absolutely what we should do. According to our approach, our air force and navy can provide analysis of the situation both in Syria and neighboring countries. The principle of full protection, including missile defenses, is absolutely correct," Anokhin told Sputnik Radio.