MINSK. May 31 (Interfax) - The General Staff of the Belarusian armed forces said the planned deployment of air and missile defense facilities in Belarus is a response to the deployment of a missile shield in Europe.
"The Belarusian and Russian defense ministries have said on many occasions that Belarus will host the most advanced warplanes and surface-to-air missile systems capable of tackling air and missile defense tasks. This would be a response to the deployment of an American missile shield in Europe," Belarusian Deputy General Staff Chief Oleg Krivonos said in an interview with the Belarusian military newspaper, Vo Slavu Rodiny.
"Belarus' role in maintaining the Union State's military security may be significant. The Belarusian military-industrial complex and Belarusian research centers are of great importance in this context. The results of our joint work with Russia can be seen in new weaponry," he said.