Russian pilots on the occasion of Air force Day, which is celebrated on August 12, showed journalists their work and living conditions at the Khmeimim air base in Syria.
There are no combat sorties after the ceasefire in Idlib was declared. Nevertheless, pilots perform training flights almost daily to "keep in shape".
"Compared to the beginning of the operation against terrorist groups in Syria (in 2015), now we can say that it is quiet. But the ammunition and the planes themselves are always ready to take off," Alexander Petrov, the commander of the aviation unit, told reporters after another training session.
In addition to the pilots themselves, on August 12, technicians servicing aircraft on the ground also celebrate their professional holiday. They are responsible for the trouble-free operation of the engine and the correct operation of all systems on board. Difficulties with servicing modern military aircraft, as noted by technicians, are not even far from Russia. "This technique is reliable, ours, does not fail," said Igor Kramar, who is engaged in servicing multi-purpose Su-35 fighters.
At the air base, a psychological unloading room is specially equipped for military personnel. Here, the pilots have massage chairs, a small cinema, as well as the opportunity to listen to music or use a virtual reality helmet.
Russian Air force Day is celebrated on August 12. It was established on August 29, 1997. On May 31, 2006, Air force Day received the status of a memorial day.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from RIA Novosti