NICOSIA [MENL] -- Syria is said to have launched negotiations for the sale
of anti-aircraft missiles from Russia.Western diplomatic sources said Syria has reached progress in its drive
to obtain the SA-18 surface-to-air missile from Moscow. The sources
described the deal as significant and said it could vastly improve the air
defense component of Syria's ground forces."This is not just another set of negotiations," a diplomatic source
familiar with the talks said. "This is meant to significantly bolster
Syria's air defense and ground capabilities and the talks are seen as being
in the advanced stage."The sources said Syria has submitted an offer for the SA-18 and that
Moscow is considering the bid. They said Israel has asked the United States
to pressure Russia to block the missile deal.
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