Syrian war

Putin reveals units deployed to Syria

President Vladimir Putin confirmed on 17 March that Russian special forces, artillery, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) units have been operating in Syria.

In a ceremony held at the Hall of the Order of St George in the Kremlin, Putin presented medals and decorations to 17 service personnel, including making four Heroes of Russia: the country's highest honour.

Awards were made to a "missile artillery" commander from the 810th Naval Infantry Brigade and an officer of the 120th Artillery Brigade. A Russian army UAV operator was also honoured, as well as a female officer from an air defence unit.