War in Context

Report: Iran worried over Syrian air defense failure in IAF strike
By Yossi Melman, Haaretz, October 5, 2007

Iran is concerned over the failure of Syria’s air defense systems to detect the Israel Air Force non-stealth aircraft that reportedly carried out an attack inside Syria last month, the American weekly Aviation Week reported on its Web site on Wednesday.

According to the report, Israel was able to disrupt Syria’s radar and air defense systems and render them ineffective during the IAF strike. The Web site reported that Israel used an electronic device, installed in a plane that circled the area, to disrupt Syria’s defenses.

The weekly maintained that Iran is especially concerned over the failure of Syria’s Russian-made radar systems. Iran has used similar systems in the past, and is slated to purchase more radar equipment in a future deal worth $750 million. This equipment is apparently designated to protect Iran’s nuclear facilities against attacks from the air. [complete article]

Google Earth zooms in on Israel military sites
Conflict Blotter, October 5, 2007

Sensitive installations, Air Force bases with their planes and helicopters, missile bases and even the nuclear reactor in Dimona have never been photographed better. A recent Google Earth update shows satellite pictures that make it possible to see clear, sharp pictures of military and civilian targets all across Israel. [complete article]