[SunkenCiv]

Besides Russian paranoia, the best explanation of this imho is that the Russians want to make it clear that they are basically annexing Georgian territory; it also is a palliative to the Iranians, who expected to have those S-300s by now.

[Tailgunner Joe]

Azerbaijan: Analysts Expect Purchase Of Russia’s S-300 Missile Systems - August 17, 2010 - ...the deal remains “at the negotiation stage, but the [Russian] government has already approved it in principle.”

Chechen leader: Azerbaijan not harbouring 'terrorists' - August 11, 2010 - "Today there is no support for terrorists and extremists in Azerbaijan and we are grateful to the country’s leadership and we want to thank them. May they be healthy and happy, especially my uncle, the mufti of the Caucasus, Sheikh ul-Islam."