Russian and Syrian jets on Tuesday began a new offensive targeting Rebels in Aleppo, using carrier-borne aircraft and Syrian air force planes for the first strikes in about a month. Russian jets, which launched from the Admiral Kuznetsov carrier along with long-range missiles, hit rebel-held parts of the city. Between four and 10 people were killed in that round of strikes, which rebels feared signaled additional strikes, The Associated Press reported. A Russian Navy frigate launched Kalibr cruise missiles and Bastion land-based missiles struck additional targets in Idlib and Homs, according to the AP. Russian officials said the strikes were a “major operation” against ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra, though observers said several strikes hit areas without ISIS fighters. Syrian state television on Tuesday reported Syrian air force aircraft hit supply depots and other targets in Aleppo, Reuters reported.
Airmen basic rarely go on to become four-star generals, but one who did retired last week after a 42 year career that saw him rise from a lowly slick-sleeve to the head of one of the Air Force’s most important major commands.