The US Air Force reported that Russian fighter jets engaged in dangerously close encounters with multiple MQ-9 Reaper drones over Syria, resulting in the need for evasive maneuvers.
The Russian jets released flares, prompting the US drones to take defensive actions. This incident marked the second occurrence within 24 hours, where Russian aircraft approached US drones operating in the same airspace.
Previously, the US had expressed concern over such actions by Russian forces, as the American drones were conducting counter-terrorism operations in Syria.
Lt Gen Alex Grynkewich, the head of US Air Forces Central Command, called on Russian forces to cease these risky behaviors and adhere to the expected standards of conduct for a professional air force.
This appeal aimed to refocus efforts on the ongoing mission of defeating ISIS.
For the 2nd consecutive day, Russian military fighter aircraft engaged in unprofessional behavior with U.S. aircraft over Syria. Please see the video of today's encounter.
For the full statement by Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich, Commander, 9th AF (AFCENT) visit https://t.co/Kv64rtJgUt pic.twitter.com/OXwM78DKGV— US AFCENT (@USAFCENT) July 6, 2023
The US Air Forces Central Command has released videos depicting two separate incidents that occurred on Wednesday and Thursday, involving Russian aircraft in Syria.
In the first incident, which took place on Wednesday morning in northwestern Syria, Russian SU-35 fighters approached a Reaper drone.
One of the Russian pilots maneuvered their jet in front of the drone, activating the afterburner, which significantly increased speed and air pressure.
The powerful jet blast from the afterburner posed a potential threat to the Reaper’s electronics and compromised the operator’s ability to safely control the aircraft. Additionally, parachute flares were deployed in the drone’s flight path.
The second incident, occurring on Thursday morning in the same region, involved Russian aircraft dropping flares and flying in close proximity to the drones, jeopardizing the safety of all aircraft involved. The drones involved in these encounters were unarmed and primarily used for reconnaissance purposes.
According to Lt Gen Grynkewich, these actions by the Russian forces were considered harassment and represented sustained and unprofessional behavior.
The interaction lasted for nearly an hour, raising concerns about the potential for escalation or miscalculation in the already complex Syrian airspace.
Army Gen Erik Kurilla, head of the US Central Command, expressed concern over Russia’s actions, stating that they increased the risk of escalation and undermined efforts to clear the airspace over Syria.
The US has approximately 900 forces deployed in Syria, working alongside the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in the fight against ISIS militants.
Source: With Agencies