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A US Air Force B-52 bomber was intercepted by two Russian aircraft in an “unsafe” and “unprofessional” method over the Black Sea and in worldwide waters, US Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa Public Affairs mentioned in a press release citing CNN.
The incident passed off on Friday.
The Russian pilots crossed inside 100 toes of the US Air Force bomber’s nostril a number of occasions and triggered turbulence to the B-52, thereby limiting its skill to manoeuvre, the assertion mentioned.
“Actions like these increase the potential for midair collisions, are unnecessary, and inconsistent with good airmanship and international flight rules,” mentioned Gen. Jeff Harrigian, US Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, within the assertion.
“While the Russian aircraft were operating in international airspace, they jeopardised the safety of flight of the aircraft involved. We expect them to operate within international standards set to ensure safety and prevent accidents,” he was quoted as saying.
Earlier on Friday, the B-52s flew over 30 NATO nations “to demonstrate NATO solidarity, enhance readiness and provide training opportunities aimed at enhancing interoperability for all participating aircrews from the US and NATO allies,” learn a press release from US European Command, based on CNN.
This comes amid tensions between the US and Russia and questions over Washington’s dedication to the alliance within the wake of a latest choice to chop US troop ranges in Europe.
US President Donald Trump had earlier criticised NATO member nations for not assembly the alliance goal of spending 2 per cent of GDP on defence. Trump then requested the Pentagon to cut back the variety of American troops in Germany, citing Berlin’s failure of committing to spend 2 per cent of its GDP on defence.
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