Greece tests Russian-made S-300 air defense systemDecember 14, 2013 - 11:13 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Greek armed forces test-fired a Russian-made S-300 air defense system on Friday, Dec 13, for the first time since it was bought 14 years ago, RIA Novosti reported. Greece is the only NATO member that has an S-300 in service. The system was initially purchased by Cyprus in the mid-1990s, and was later transferred to the Greek island of Crete following objections from Turkey. The launch was carried out as part of the White Eagle 2013 military exercise and was described as “successful.” “It may sound paradoxical, but this successful S-300 launch is a message of peace and stability in Southeastern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean,” Greek Defense Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos said in a statement. “The S-300, one of the most modern defense systems that ensure the efficiency of our country’s air defense, was test-fired after 14 years in service,” he said. “The launch saw immense success.” Related links: Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Czech-Armenian military cooperation discussed in Yerevan A delegation led by the Director General for the Industrial Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic visited Armenia. U.S. welcomes efforts to define Armenia-Azerbaijan border The United States welcomes efforts to define the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan, says Vedant Patel. Biden honors resilience of Armenian people on April 24 U.S. President Joe Biden has issued a statement on the 109th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Ex-Karabakh leader moved to solitary confinement cell in Baku, his son says David Vardanyan is the son of former Karabakh leader Ruben Vardanyan who who is currently imprisoned in Azerbaijan. |