Russia has been showing off its military operations in Syria, as it builds up its presence in the country.
British broadcaster Sky News joined a small number of other media outlets that were given rare access to one its airbases – Latakia on the Syrian coast – where runways are being extended, and more equipment flown in.
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Their Defence Ministry has been keen to show media outlets, according to Sky, that their ‘war on terror’ is not about saving the Syrian regime however.
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Sky filmed building work at the Latakia base, as the Russians prepare to extend their runways there.
Major-General Igor Konachenkov, a Russian Ministry of Defence spokesman, was there to speak to the journalists.
He dismissed claims of mounting civilian casualties in Syria caused by Russian airstrikes.
The journalists were also taken to Tartus, where the Russians dock their ships.
Sky claimed that it is believed the Russians are building up their forces in Syria with new airfields and equipment and a fleet that now numbers eleven.
Their reporter asked Konachenkov how many bases the Russian have in Syria, to be told Russia needed no more bases.
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The journalists were also given the opportunity to film the Slava class guided missile cruiser Moskva, the lead ship of the Black Sea fleet.
A gangway was extended and the journalists allowed to board the cruiser.
A group of pro-Syrian government journalists were on the tour, and sang along as they were able to view the Russian forces.
Sky also filmed an area in northern Syria, 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Latakia, hit by Russian airstrikes.
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