Swords and Shields: Cutting supply lines

Despite Moscow’s assurances of support and cooperation in efforts to defeat the Taliban, Russia appears to be working hard to undermine NATO supply lines to the troops in Afghanistan.

The coalition forces have used part of Manas Air Base as a military airfield since December 2001. They have set up semi-permanent hangars, aircraft maintenance facilities and a cargo depot, as well as a tent city near the airport to host the troops.