According to information reported by CNN, International News Channel on November 2, 2023, the US has intelligence that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has agreed to provide the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah with a Russian-made Pantsir S1 mobile air defense system, NATO designation SA-22 Greyhound.
Previously unreported, Assad’s involvement has come to light following earlier disclosures by The Wall Street Journal regarding the potential provision of the system to Hezbollah by Wagner. Both Wagner and Hezbollah combatants have long been active in Syria, collaborating with Russian and Syrian military forces to strengthen Assad’s position against opposing factions. Over time, Hezbollah has reduced its presence, yet it continues to receive support from Iran, a staunch ally of Assad. A source with knowledge of Western intelligence has indicated a growing partnership between Hezbollah and Wagner within the Syrian context.
The Pantsir-S1 (NATO reporting name SA-22 Greyhound) is a Russian-made short to medium-range surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft artillery weapon system. The system is designed to defend against a variety of threats including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, drones, and precision-guided munitions.
In the context of Syria, the Pantsir-S1 systems have been a significant part of Russia’s military support to the Syrian government. They have been used to protect military and strategic locations, such as airfields and command centers, from attacks by rebel and jihadist groups, as well as from potential airstrikes by other nations.