New MANPADS Sightings in Syria -- The Gun
Arms spotters today noticed the appearance of what looks like the Chinese FN-6 series of heat-seeking shoulder fired missile in Syria. The system, which appears complete, was in the hands of an anti-government fighter. Another sign that the MANPADSs threat to the Syrian Air Force escalates, and that the regional security worries grow. For links and hat-tips to those who keep an eye out for these things, go here for the Brown Moses fast-post. For more background, try there or there.
WNU Editor: For more on C.J. Chivers reporting, go here. As to what is my take on this sighting .... the rebels now have a supplier for these missiles which means that the more radical elements in the Syrian rebel movement (i.e. Al Qaeda affiliated groups) now have these weapons.