US Anti-tank Rockets On Video of Syrian Battle
An undisclosed source released video footage showing US antitank rockets today, possibly the first clear sign of US support through provision of arms for Syrian rebels. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/charles-lister/american-anti-tank-weapon_b_5119255.html
Some speculate that the US ally, Saudi Arabia, leaked the video with US agreement. http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/04/15/us-syria-crisis-arms-usa-idUSBREA3E0RZ20140415
In the unconfirmed video, BGM-71 TOW rockets clearly appear to be used. These rockets, part of the US arsenal and made by the US company Raytheon, might be from any of 15 nations that also include them in their inventory. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BGM-71_TOW
To HFS analysts, the video raises many questions, but it offers small insight into the US role in the region. The US has declined to offer any comments about the video or rumors of its supplying weapons to Syrian rebels. Due to history of the BGM-71 TOW (tube-launched, optically-tracked, wire-guided) rocket since its inception by Hughes Aircraft in 1970 and the present widespread inclusion of this rocket in many other nations’ arsenals, more information should be considered before jumping to any conclusion about what support the US has provided. The Syrian rebels share Islamic roots with the Syrian government, even if different branches of Islam, so neither the rebels nor the current government offer any significant hopes to Americans of a future democracy or even mere sympathy for western interests. Possibly another party seeks to link the US with the Syrian rebels’ rockets. What do you think?
