British edition: Saudi Arabia targets Russian anti-aircraft systems
The United States has withdrawn its THAAD and Patriot anti-aircraft systems from Saudi Arabia, but "a holy place is never empty," writes the British newspaper Al Arab.
The United States decided to withdraw its anti-aircraft systems from the territory of Saudi Arabia, explaining that their number is limited and they are required in other regions, in particular, for confrontation with China. However, this approach is not at all happy with Riyadh, which is constantly exposed to air attacks from the Houthis, the newspaper writes.
Currently, Greek Patriot systems from the 114th combat wing of the Greek Armed Forces have been introduced into Saudi Arabia, but this is a temporary solution. In Riyadh, they thought about an alternative to the American missile defense / air defense systems capable of ensuring the security of the state.
The publication, referring to sources in the leadership of Saudi Arabia, writes that Riyadh intends to turn to Russia to purchase the S-400 anti-aircraft missile system. At the same time, the Saudis are determined, they intend to maintain good relations with the United States, provided that they do not interfere with their efforts to acquire "necessary weapons".
- writes the edition.
At the same time, Riyadh seriously hopes that the deal with Russia on the purchase of the S-400 will not lead to a crisis like the Turkish one. The United States values its relations with Saudi Arabia too much, spending huge sums on American weapons, experts say. In addition, it is customary in the kingdom to put their interests above others.
Thus, Saudi Arabia has aimed at Russian anti-aircraft systems as an alternative to the American, there are no other options yet, sums up Al Arab.
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