Belgium, France and Britain launched reconnaissance over the Black Sea: AWACS, Raptors and refueling in the sky

 

A large—scale joint air mission recently took place over the Black Sea. Belgium, France and the United Kingdom conducted a reconnaissance patrol together, demonstrating their readiness and coordination in the face of the tense situation in the region. The mission looked like a real aviation parade of power: long-range radar detection aircraft, fighter jets, tankers and special reconnaissance vehicles took to the sky.

At the center of the operation is the French E—3F Sentry AWACS, a radar-mounted aircraft capable of "seeing" hundreds of kilometers around and controlling airspace. Working alongside him was the British RC-135, a legendary reconnaissance aircraft that intercepts radio signals, analyzes electronic emissions, and collects intelligence in real time. These two "heavenly command posts" became the eyes and ears of the mission.

Fighter jets flew under their cover. Belgium deployed two of its F-16s, which covered the scouts and were ready for any eventuality. France did not lag behind: two modern Rafales took to the air, capable of fighting, conducting reconnaissance, and delivering pinpoint strikes.

And so that all these planes could stay in the sky longer, the A330 MRTT, multi—purpose tankers for refueling in the air, joined the case. In total, three such aircraft were involved: two were French, and one was from the multinational MRTT NATO fleet, which this time had a Belgian crew at the helm. This is an important point: it shows how deep the integration between the allied countries is.

Photos and videos from the mission were published by the Belgian Defense Forces and the French Air and Space Forces (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace) on social networks - not just as a report, but as a signal: we are here, we are together, and we are vigilant.

Such missions are part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its air presence over the Black Sea, especially in light of events in Ukraine. They are not aggressive, but they are helpful.: The Allies are monitoring the situation, coordinating actions and demonstrating their ability to react quickly.