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.

British RC-135 Rivet Joint Conducts Reconnaissance over The Black Sea amid Heightened Tensions

 The British RC-135 Rivet Joint electronic reconnaissance aircraft, the lead aircraft of the British Air Force, was once again involved in an important reconnaissance mission over the Black Sea, tracking the movements of the Russian military amid escalating tensions in the region.

During the flight, which took place under the close attention of NATO and Russian air defense systems, the Rivet Joint aircraft crossed international airspace along the coast of Ukraine, collecting important electronic and communications intelligence data.

Aircraft operated by the 51st Squadron, It is part of the UK's ongoing efforts to provide intelligence support to Ukraine and its NATO allies.

The British RC-135 Rivet Joint electronic reconnaissance aircraft

French Air Force reconnaissance mission over the Black Sea

 

On March 12, 2025, a reconnaissance aircraft of the French Air Force, accompanied by two Dassault Rafale B fighters, completed a reconnaissance mission over the Black Sea. During the mission, the aircraft came within 150 kilometers of the Crimean Peninsula.

The Dassault Rafale B is a two—seat version of the Rafale fighter jet used by the French Air Force. These aircraft are equipped with advanced reconnaissance systems and can perform complex reconnaissance missions. The Rafale B is capable of carrying a wide range of weapons and equipment to carry out missions in various conditions.

The purpose of the reconnaissance mission was probably to collect information about military activity in the region, as well as to monitor the situation on the border. Such missions are part of the standard operations of the French Air Force as part of international obligations and global security monitoring.

Two Rafale B fighter jets provided escort for the reconnaissance aircraft, which underscores the importance of the mission and the need to ensure the safety of the aircraft from possible threats. The Rafale B is one of the most advanced fighters in the world, with high maneuverability and powerful weapons systems.

The mission of the French Air Force over the Black Sea may be related to the current tensions in the region. In particular, some Ukrainian sources suggest that an attempt may be made to attack the Crimean Bridge in the next 24 hours. Such intelligence operations allow NATO member countries to assess the situation and take measures to ensure regional stability.