Polar Quest

21

Jackson Barnett looked over the report on the ID plate Kilkenny had found inside the SAM launcher. The U.S. designation for the weapon was the SA-17, though NATO referred to it more colorfully as a Grizzly.

Barnett’s phone emitted an electronic purr and he picked up the handset. ‘Yeah, Sally.’

‘I have Igor Fydorov on the line.’

‘Put him through.’

‘Director Barnett, I understand you wish to speak with me.’

‘Yes. There’s a delicate matter we need to discuss regarding Russian military hardware being sold on the open market.’

‘My country sells some of our weapons abroad, as does yours,’ Fydorov replied matter-of-factly. ‘For us, it is a good source of hard currency.’

‘Yes, but I wasn’t aware that your country was selling its top lines. The specific weapon I’m referring to is a mobile surface-to-air missile system, what you call Ural. It was used to destroy one of our military aircraft. This unprovoked attack took place over peaceful, international airspace — something most civilized nations view as an act of war.’

‘When did this happen?’ Fydorov asked. Barnett had his undivided attention.

‘A few weeks ago.’

Fydorov tried to recall any news about U.S. aircraft that crossed his desk recently. ‘Antarctica?’

Like playing poker, Barnett carefully considered how much of his hand he would show. ‘Yes.’

‘I can assure you, my country had nothing to do with that.’

‘I’m glad to hear it.’

‘This weapon could have come from China or Belarus. We have been helping both countries upgrade their air defenses.’

‘I’m afraid not. You see, we’ve recovered the launcher and it’s definitely one of yours. If, as you say, Russia had nothing to do with this attack, then I’m sure you won’t mind helping us determine how this weapon got into the hands of those who did.’