The Russian Air Force’s attack helicopters played an integral role in the Syrian Arab Army’s (SAA) gains in the Palmyra (Tadmur) countryside on Sunday, as their relentless bombardment of the Islamic State of Iraq and Al-Sham’s (ISIS) defensive positions paved the way for the government advance.

The Syrian Arab Army’s “Tiger Forces” (Al-Hamza Brigade) – backed by the Russian choppers and National Defense Forces (NDF) – liberated the small mountaintop of Jabal Zalfah in northern Palmyra after a violent battle with the Islamic State terrorists this afternoon.

In addition to the liberation of Jabal Zalfah, the Tiger Forces and their allies also liberated the remaining hilltops under the terrorist group’s control at Jabal ‘Antar; this mountain was partially captured by ISIS during their counter-offensive in northwestern Palmyra earlier this week.

The Tiger Forces are now targeting ISIS’ defenses at Mount Murbet Al-Hassan, which is located just north of Jabal ‘Antar.