Russia’s fighter jets now not only harass but also break US aircraft, demonstrating Moscow’s remaining power.

Russia's fighter jets now not only harass but also break US aircraft, demonstrating Moscow's remaining power.

Russian Fighter Jets Harass US Military Drones Above Syria

Russian fighter jets have been routinely harassing and bullying US military drones operating above Syria throughout the month of July. In a recent incident, Moscow’s pilots dropped flares that damaged an MQ-9 Reaper drone. These aggressive actions by Russia have frustrated US officials who accuse them of endangering counterterrorism missions. Experts believe that the Kremlin is trying to compensate for military shortcomings in Ukraine and exert its power in an area where it still maintains influence.

Escalating Tensions Above Syrian Skies

The US and Russia both have a military presence in Syria. The US has around 900 troops deployed for counterterrorism operations against ISIS, while Russia supports the Assad regime in the country’s ongoing civil war. In recent years, the two countries have managed to avoid clashes in Syria despite pursuing their own interests. However, the bilateral relationship deteriorated significantly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, tensions have remained high, with recent engagements in Syrian airspace further elevating the strained relationship.

On Sunday, a Russian Su-35 fighter jet flew dangerously close to a US MQ-9 Reaper drone on a counterterrorism mission and dropped flares above the American aircraft. One of the flares hit and damaged the drone’s propeller, but the crew was able to safely bring it back to base. Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, the commander of US Air Forces Central Command (AFCENT), condemned the Russian pilot’s behavior, calling it “reckless, unprovoked, and unprofessional.”

This incident is just one of several demonstrations of Russian aggression towards US military drones this month. In the first week of July, Moscow’s pilots engaged in provocative behavior, including flying in close proximity to American drones, dropping parachute flares, and using afterburners. On July 7, Russian fighter jets flew dangerously close to several Reaper drones for almost two hours, posing a significant threat to a counterterrorism mission. Later that day, those same drones carried out a strike that killed an ISIS leader in eastern Syria.

Motivation Behind Russian Aggression

Experts suggest several reasons behind Russia’s recent spike in aggressive behavior in Syrian airspace. One significant factor is the Wagner Group’s rebellion against Russia’s military leadership in June. This mutiny, although short-lived, caused reputational damage to Russia’s military and undermined President Vladimir Putin’s authority. As a result, Putin may be searching for opportunities to compensate and demonstrate military strength.

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Furthermore, Russia sees its military presence in Syria as a way to demonstrate its global power and influence, shaping international affairs according to its own interests. Unlike in Ukraine, where Russia faced operational failures, the Russian forces in Syria have achieved tangible results in supporting the Assad regime and influencing the ongoing 12-year-long conflict. Moscow’s aggression towards US military drones may also be a tactic to support its growing military ties with Iran and assist in ousting US forces from the Middle East.

Another potential explanation for Russia’s behavior is the desire to test the lethality of US drones and observe how the US would respond in a state-based conflict. By engaging in risky maneuvers, including harassing and damaging drones, Russia can flex its military muscles without risking a major escalation.

US Reactions and Future Implications

US officials have been highlighting Russia’s aggressive behavior in the sky in recent months. In March, a Russian fighter jet clipped the propeller of a US Reaper drone above the Black Sea, forcing the US operators to bring the aircraft down. Additionally, Russia has also conducted armed flyovers of US military positions, causing further concern. In response to these provocations and increasing hostilities from Iran in the Middle East, the US has deployed additional firepower to the region, including F-22 and F-35 stealth fighter jets.

The deployment of these fighter jets demonstrates the US commitment to ensure peace and security in the region, including support for counterterrorism missions against ISIS in Syria. However, it remains uncertain how the US will ultimately respond to Russia’s aggression. While the US could scale back missions, as seen after the Black Sea incident, or reinforce its presence, caution must be exercised to avoid escalating the situation. A measured response that aligns with national security interests would be necessary to minimize unnecessary risks to US soldiers.

In conclusion, Russia’s aggressive behavior towards US military drones above Syria is causing increasing tensions between the two countries. The motivations behind Russia’s actions include compensating for military shortcomings in Ukraine, showcasing its power in Syria, and supporting its alliance with Iran. The US has responded by reinforcing its military presence, but careful consideration of an appropriate response is necessary to avoid further escalation. As the situation continues to unfold, Russian provocations in the sky remain a point of concern for both sides.

• MQ-9 Reaper drone
• Russia
• Syria