Syrian rebels deploy 'Shaheen' drones ahead of Homs assault

The report comes one day after rebels announced on Telegram that they had reached Homs's city limits, making a final call for government forces to defect.

By SAM HALPERN DECEMBER 7, 2024 08:27 Updated: DECEMBER 7, 2024 09:22

Tanks stand after rebels led by HTS have sought to capitalize on their swift takeover of Aleppo in the north and Hama in west-central Syria by pressing onwards to Homs, in Hama, Syria December 6, 2024. (photo credit: REUTERS/Mahmoud Hasano)

Rebel factions in Syria launched a squadron of "Shaheen" drones in preparation to storm Homs, the Saudi outlet Al Hadath reported on Saturday, adding that swarms of drones were seen over the city.

The report comes one day after rebels announced on Telegram that they had reached Homs's city limits, making a final call for government forces to defect.

Drone attacks have reportedly been targeting the key Syrian city throughout the past week. On Monday, Syrian state news agency SANA reported that Syrian air defenses had intercepted "several hostile drones" over the city.

New offensive bolstered by 'Shaheen' Unit

The Hayʼat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)-led lightning offensive, codenamed "Dettering Aggression," launched last month, has been bolstered by the newly formed "Shaheen" Unit.

The unit specializes in the use of advanced drones and missiles and reportedly led the rebel forces's push into Aleppo.

People ride on vehicle with belongings in Hama, after rebels led by HTS have sought to capitalize on their swift takeover of Aleppo in the north and Hama in west-central Syria by pressing onwards to Homs, in Hama, Syria December 6, 2024. (credit: REUTERS/Mahmoud Hasano)

The unit was created out of the need to develop specialized weapons capable of shifting the balance of power on the battlefield, a HTS commander told The Media Line earlier this month.