A NATO operation is currently underway over the Black Sea theater, involving numerous assets (not necessarily all linked to the same mission but nonetheless active in the area).
The most noteworthy element is the mission over the Black Sea by a French Boeing E-3CF (reg. 702-CB), which departed from Avord Air Base and is undoubtedly escorted by French Air Force fighters, as has been the case in the past.
This aircraft is supported by a French Airbus A330MRTT (reg. F-UJCN), which conducted an aerial refueling operation over eastern Hungary.
Additionally, a Turkish Air Force Boeing KC-135R (reg. 62-3567) is active along the Romanian coast, providing support to NATO aircraft engaged in a Combat Air Patrol (CAP) mission in the area.
Two more assets are present in the region: a NATO Boeing E-3A (reg. LX-N90456) orbiting over northeastern Romania and a RAF Boeing RC-135W (reg. ZZ666) conducting a SIGINT mission near the Moldovan border, covering a substantial portion of Ukrainian territory.
It has been quite some time since we observed such significant activity in the area. This operation also serves a “political” purpose, underlining NATO’s unwavering commitment to Ukraine.
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