Operation Atlantic Resolve:Substantial Land Forces Augmenting European Defence

A hefty amount of land warfare capability is currently being rotated into Europe,according to U.S. Army Europe and Africa.It is the Ninth Atlantic Resolve rotation of Soldiers and equipment,this time from the US Army 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team,4th Infantry Division,out of Fort Carson,Colorado.The equipment began arriving in March 2022 at ports in Denmark,Greece and the Netherlands.Soldiers began arriving this month.The deployment consists of about 4,000 Soldiers;90 M-1 Abrams tanks;15 Paladin 155mm self-propelled howitzers;150 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles;500 tracked vehicles and 600 wheeled vehicles;plus other equipment.* Atlantic Resolve began in April 2014 in response to Russia's first invasion of Ukraine,in which it annexed Crimea and instigated conflict in the Donbas Region of Eastern Ukraine.The four types of Atlantic Resolve rotations are:armored;aviation;sustainment task force;and division headquarters,currently staffed by 3rd Infantry Division in Poznan,Poland.These units,which maintain a constant presence on the European continent,conduct bilateral,joint and multinational training and security cooperation activities across more than 12 nations,our Allies and Partners in Europe.* The purpose of Atlantic Resolve is to deploy combat-ready forces into Europe as evidence of the United States' strong and unremitting commitment to NATO and Europe by building readiness,increasing interoperabilty and enhancing the bonds between Ally and Partner militaries.It is funded by the European Deterrence Initiative (EDI).At any given time,around 7,000 Soldiers are regionally allocated to Atlantic Resolve.

Defence Leaders' Perspective on the Ukraine Crisis

On 28 January 2022,the Secretary of Defense General Lloyd Austin III,US Army retired,and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,General Mark Milley,US Army,briefed reporters at the Pentagon.The following is this blog's notes on their presentations. General Austin: Russia's buildup has progressed at a consistent and steady pace,supported by increased naval activity in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean.The forces they have assembled are capable of the seizure of cities and portions of territories.We remain focused on their use of disinformation and our commitment to national sovereignty,territiorial integrity and self-determination.We're unified against Russia's attempt to undermine our values,but conflict is not inevitable.Diplomacy is still possible.* We have supplied Ukraine with Javelin anti-tank missiles;grenade-launchers;artillery;and small arms.Another shipment arrived today. The situation on Ukraine's borders is changing rapidly.We will continue to provide President Biden with options.We will continue to consult with our Allies.A move by Russia into Ukraine will result in the very opposite of what they say they don't want.There's no reason why this situation has to devolve into conflict.Whatever Putin decides,we will stand with our Allies and Partners.* General Milley: Ukraine has the right to be independent,as it has been since 1991.Russia guaranteed the sovereignty of Ukraine.We strongly encourage Russia to stand down.They have over 100,000 ground manoeuvre forces in place on Ukraine's borders,along with air,naval,Special Operations Forces,and logistics elements. Ukraine is the second largest country in Europe,with 44 million people.When its high water table freezes,it is ideal for the transit of tracked armoured vehicles.If war were to break out,the Ukrainian people will suffer immensely. Ukraine's combat capabilties have improved since Russia's 2014 invasion.There is a small contingent of US military advisors in Ukraine (Yavoriv),but they have no offensive capabilty.NATO,minus the US,has more than 130 brigades of ground manoeuvre forces;93 squadrons of high-end fighter aircraft;four aircraft carriers;and other surface combatants.The President has authorised us to reassure and reinforce our NATO Allies.* General Austin: We always consider the impact our troop movements will have on other leaders.If and when we do move in,the purpose is to reassure and support NATO.Russia's moves are an overt act of coercion against Ukraine.With north of 100,000 troops,that gives Putin a number of options.We can't predict what he will decide,but we remain concerned about the range of options he has. General Milley: They could move against Ukraine with ground manoeuvre forces and air power.They could launch ballistic missiles. General Austin: Their force posture far and away exceeds what we typically see for exercises.We're focused to provide the President with options to support and reinforce NATO. General Milley: Russia's force posture does feel different than anything we have seen in recent memory-since the end of the Cold War.* General Austin,when asked whether US troops might assist Americans in Ukraine to evacuate: Any troops that we deploy have multiple capabilities.The President has been clear about not using troops in Ukraine for combat operations,but we prepare for a range of activities and options.Whatever task the US military is called upon to accompish,we'll do our best to do it.The US military is prepared to do whatever we are directed to do.We have significant capabilties to protect and defend the homeland. Let me thank Canada and our other Allies for what they do to support Ukraine.We are in constant communication with Canada and the UK on support for Ukraine. I don't think this is about trusting Putin.This is about our Allies trusting us.Right now,we don't think Russia's final decisions have been made.* General Milley: All of Russia's forces are packaged together.If they were unleashed on Ukraine,there would be significant civilian casualties.It would be horrific.It would be terrible.* General Austin: There was no provocation that caused them to move those forces to the borders of Ukraine.*

As Ukraine Crisis Builds,Major Naval Drills Set To Begin in Europe

As Europe totters on the edge of an abyss fabricated by the Kremlin,naval forces of both Russia and NATO will soon begin exercising in the region.Russia is holding massive drills involving more than 140 warships and support vessels,50+ aircraft,1,000 pieces of military equipment,and 10,000 personnel,from January-February;while NATO,for its part,is staging Exercise Neptune Strike 22.The NATO drills were not on the list of official NATO exercises for 2022.So far,details about it are sketchy.All that is definitely known is that it begins on 24 January and concludes on 4 February,and that the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group with its four Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers;a guided missile cruiser;typically up to two nuclear-powered attack submarines with Tomahawk cruise missiles for power projection on land; and a Royal Netherlands Navy frigate are taking part.The carrier air wing includes several dozen Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornets,which can carry armaments ranging up to the B61-12 tactical nuclear bomb.* Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby,US Navy retired,said the drills will: demonstrate NATO'S ability to integrate the high-end maritime strike capabilities of an aircraft carrier strike group to support the defence and deterrence of the Alliance...NATO Allies will participate in coordinated maritime manoeuvres;anti-submarine warfare training;and long-range strike training.* The Russian exercises will take place both in Russian seas and select World Oceans,including the Mediterranean,the Russian news agency TASS said,where the Truman CSG has been patrolling on orders of the Secretary of Defense,General Lloyd Austin III,US Army retired.* It is also known that NATO Ally Spain has dispatched a minesweeper and a frigate to the Mediterranean and the Black Seas in response to the Ukraine crisis;it may also send fighter aircraft to reinforce NATO Ally Bulgaria.France has offered to send troops to reinforce Romania.* Boeing (BA)

Will not pull troops from allied nations, says NATO Chief Jens Stoltenbe...

Drumbeat of War:Truman Carrier Strike Group Braces European Waters

The US Navy's Harry S. Truman Carrier Strke Group (CSG 8) has deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility (Europe/Africa).On 1 December 2021,it departed its homeport of Norfolk,Virginia.It was ordered to remain in the Mediterranean by Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III to provide assurance to European Allies,considering the escalating threat posed by about 100,000 Russian forces gathered along NATO Partner Ukraine's borders. A series of three diplomatic encounters between the US,NATO,Europe and Russia has failed to resolve the crisis.Russia has cynically demanded what it knows NATO cannot do:exclude Ukraine from NATO membership and withdraw forces from NATO'S Eastern Flank.According to U.S. Ambassador to the Organisation of Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Michael R. Carpenter: We must never stand for the flouting or erosion of our bedrock principles.That means no tolerance for overt or tacit spheres of influence,no restrictions on the sovereign right of nations to choose their own alliances,no privileging one state's security requirements over those of another.* CSG 8,commanded by Rear Admiral Curtis Renshaw,consists of the flagship aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75);Carrier Air Wing 1;the staffs of Carrier Strike Group 8 and the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56).It also includes: the guided missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron 28 (DESRON 28) under Captain Todd Zenneri,namely,USS Bainbridge (DDG 96),USS Cole (DDG 67),USS Gravely (DDG 107),and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109); a special member in NATO Ally Norway's Fridtjof-Nansen class frigate HNoMS Fridtjof-Nansen (F 310) for the duration of the deployment; and likely up to two nuclear-powered attack submarines.* Carrier Strike Groups have the flexibility and sustainability to fight major wars and ensure freedom of the seas,the Navy said.CSG 8 is capable of conducting the full spectrum of combat operations to ensure security in the maritime,noted Rear Admiral Renshaw,adding that: I have no doubt that we are prepared for any challenge while we are deployed.* Painstaking maintenance of the CSG air assets is one of the primary tasks of the Group's Sailors.In January 2022,two of the Truman's F/A-18E Super Hornets drilled with two F-16 Fighting Falcons of the Hellenic Air Force over the Mediterranean Sea.*

NATO Secretary General following the meeting of the NATO-Russia Council ...

NATO Secretary General with Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine 🇺🇦 Olga Ste...

US Air Force Flying Intel Missions Over Eastern Ukraine

On 27 and 30 December 2021,US Air Force intelligence platforms were flown over Eastern Ukraine with permission of the Ukrainian government.The aim of the flights was to ascertain Russia's force posture along Ukraine's border with Russia,where tens of thousands of Russian troops have been intimidating Ukraine,whch is a former Soviet Republic.Participating were Boeing/Northrop Grumman Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) and RC-135V Rivet Joint SIGINT aircraft.The second flight occurred within hours Thursday of a secure video call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Joseph R. Biden at 1500 hours Eastern time.The call,described by Russia as having been "serious and constructive" was held at Mr.Putin's initiative.It lasted 50 minutes. According to the White House readout: President Biden voiced the deep concern of the United States and our European Allies about Russia's escalation of forces surrounding Ukraine and made clear that the U.S. and our Allies would respond with strong economic and other measures in the event of military escalation.President Biden reiterated his support for Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and called for de-escalation and a return to diplomacy.The two presidents tasked their teams to follow up,the U.S. will do so in close coordination with allies and partners. The presidents also discussed the U.S.-Russia dialogue on Strategic Stability,a separate dialogue on ransomware,as well as joint work on regional issues such as Iran.* Mr.Putin reportedly warned President Biden that imposing severe sanctions on Russia would be "a colossal mistake." Former Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes (Obama administartion) said you can't call talking with Mr.Putin a conversation;he has been on a 20-year trajectory of aggression against the Republic of Georgia and Ukraine,and his words are more of a tirade.He tries to draw you into a debate about his view of history.You must plow through his talking points and make your message firmly,despite his "whataboutism."* A Biden administration official calls today "a moment of crisis."Russia's assertive foreign policy can be used to cloak Russia's domestic problems.Former CIA Director and Defense Secretary Leon Panetta says Mr.Putin is ratcheting up his pressure when he is trying to get his way.It's been said that he is seeking to divide NATO in the wake of the hasty withdrawal from Afghanistan,which disturbed some European Allies.* The reconnaissance flights didn't find any easing of tension along the Ukrainian border.Indeed,Russia is planning to stage even more drills in nearby Belarus.Former US Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor said: There's no serious negotiations when you have a gun...100,000 guns...pointed at your head.* The 16 JSTARS aircraft are based at Warner Robins Air Force Base,Georgia.They are operated by the Georgia Air National Guard.Built on a Boeing 707 airframe,JSTARS are intended to operate through 2030.Their side-looking radar can observe 20,000 square miles of terrain down to the level of tracking the motions of vehicles.They can also conduct battle management,command and control.* The RC-135V/W is built on a Boeing C-135 Stratolifter airframe with mission systems by L3Harris Technologies. Boeing (BA),Northrop Grumman (NOC),L3Harris (LHX)

Former NATO Commander Warns of Putin's Next Move

According to former Supreme Allied Commander Europe General Wesley Clark,US Army retired,it looks to him as if the Russian armed forces are primed to take swift action against Ukraine.They have been modernised and have likely assured an eager Russian President Vladimir Putin that they can reconstitute part of the Soviet Union in short order if instructed to do so.And Russia has most recently accused the US and Ukraine of planning to use chemical weapons,which could be a pretext concocted to justify a Russian attack on Ukraine.The charge is blatantly false,since the US decades ago canceled its chemical weapons programme.* General Clark,speaking to CNN's Wolf Blitzer,suggested that Romania,a NATO Ally that borders Ukraine and is located in the Black Sea Region,be reinforced by air to protect against spillover of a possible Russian invasion of Ukraine.Russian troops,the former 14th Guards Army,illegally occupy part of NATO Partner Moldova,which also borders Romania.He believes the Russian buildup on Ukraine's borders is reaching the point where Russian forces cannot sustain their posture much longer.* Russia has recently made a number of demands that it knows NATO cannot accept,such as forbidding Ukrainian membership in NATO and refraining from deployment of NATO forces in Central and Eastern Europe.So the Kremlin seems to be fabricating a rationale for further aggression against Ukraine.* A senior Biden administration official rejected the demands: We will not compromise on key principles on which European security is based.* Asked by a journalist about Mr.Putin's red lines,President Joseph R. Biden had previously stated: I don't accept any red lines.*

US Official:Russian Invasion of Ukraine Means More US Troops to Europe

A senior US official told reporters that,should Russian President Vladimir Putin order the invasion of Ukrainian territory for a second time,one result would be the US sending additional troops to reinforce Europe: It would certainly be the case that if Putin moved in,there would be an increasing request from Eastern Flank Allies,and a positive response from the United States,for additional forces and capabilities and exercises to take place there to ensure the safety and security of our Eastern Flank Allies in the face of that kind of aggression in Ukraine...a combination of support for the Ukrainian military;strong economic countermeasures;and a substantial increase in support and capability to our NATO Allies to ensure that they remain safe.* Indeed,NATO Ally Latvia has already called for US troops to be permanently based on its territiory.The anonymous US official declined to specify under which circumstances the US military coud get involved if Russia carries out an attack on Ukraine,described by the Intelligence Community as a possible three-pincer strike with at least 175,000 Russian military personnel.As for Ukraine joining NATO (it already has a Membership Action Plan to chart its course to NATO membership),the official stressed that: The US has consistently expressed support for the principle that every country has the sovereign right to make its own decisions with respect to its security.That remains US policy today and will remain US policy in the furture.So that much is straightforward and clear.* There is also some concern that,should Russia barge into Ukraine,China might seize the opportunity to invade Taiwan at the same time.*

Russia Preparing for Possible Quick Strike on Ukraine

International concern is mounting about Russia's intentions for its persistent massing of troops and military equipment along the Ukrainian borders while criticising Ukrainian behaviour.According to Ukrainian military intelligence,there are now about 100,000 Russian troops assembled along Ukrainian territory.The Intelligence Community feels they are configured for a potential multi-pronged attack on Ukraine.A blitzkrieg,which is the German for "lightning war,"could begin with Russian artillery barrages and airstrikes,then be followed up by air assault,amphibious and infantry incursions.A blitzkrieg is a battle of annihilation by surprise attack including armoured or motorised infantry formations integrated with close air support.It dislocates and disorients the enemy with its constantly evolving fronts.* On 22 November 2021,Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley,US Army,spoke by phone with his Ukrainian counterpart,Lieutenant General Valery Zaluzhny.CNN reported that the US may send military advisors to Ukraine,along with lethal aid such as Javelin anti-tank and anti-armour missiles;mortars;and Raytheon Stinger anti-aircraft missiles.It is even possible that the US will send Ukraine Mi-17 Russian-built helicopters that the Pentagon had originally purchased for the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces.* Russia has robustly denied it is planning an invasion of Ukraine.Still,the US is briefing NATO Allies and Partners about Russia's force posture,which is sometimes shifting by night to evade detection,with much alarm and specificity,Ukrainian sources say.Indeed,the Ukrainian Defence Ministry notes that Russia is increasing the combat readiness of Russian-backed occupation forces in the tempoarily occupied territory of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions in Eastern Ukraine.And Russia has been running large-scale command and staff exercises,including calling in reserves.The Russian Spetznaz special forces,GRU military intelligence and SVR foreign intelligence operatives have been activated along Ukraine's borders,US officials observed. An attack could come in late January or early February,Ukrainian military intelligence assesses.The US would likely not choose to defend Ukraine from Russia in a direct way,since Ukraine is not a NATO Ally.It is not believed that the Armed Forces of Ukraine could prevail;but they could do some damage to the invaders.* Raytheon Technologies Corp (RTX)

Land Forces Alert:New Russian Buildup Heightens Washington's Fears Over Ukraine

Since late September,Russian troops,tanks and artillery have been massing near Yelnya,Russia near Northern Ukraine.The move has Washington gravely concerned-so much so that CIA Director William Burns,who speaks Russian and was a former Ambassador to Russia,was sent to Moscow by US President Joseph R. Biden last week for talks with Kremlin officials.Mr.Burns spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin by phone,telling him the US is seriously concerned about the irregular deployment,and probing the Kremlin's intentions for the bulked-up capability.Mr.Burns also met with Nikolai Patrushev,Secretary of Russia's Security Council and former head of the FSB,the Russian spy agency that succeeded the KGB,informing him the US was following the unusual miltary activity very closely.* The massing of troops and firepower had begun following a Russia-Belarus joint exercise in the area.The elite 1st Guards Tank Army is among the tents,armoured units and support elements that were detected by a Maxar Technologies satellite.Photos of the buildup by the satellite were viewed by this blog.Forces of the 41st Combined Arms Army did not return to their base in Novosibirsk,Siberia after the drills with Belarus,and were augmented by even more troops.* Pentagon spokesman Rear Admiral John Kirby,US Navy retired,said: We're aware of public reports of unusual Russian military activity near Ukraine.We're going to continue to consult with Allies and Partners on this issue.As we've said before,any escalating or aggressive actions would be of great concern to the United States.* Indeed,Ukraine's defence ministry noted that Russia has: established a practise of transferring and accumulating military units for the purpose of maintaining tension in the region and political pressure on neighbouring countries.* Some US officials are more concerned about this buildup than the one that occurred back in March,noting that Russia is configuring a capability to make a quiick strike against Ukraine.A congressional aide said: With such a large buildup,Putin could order an invasion at any time and there would be very little warning.* A european diplomat feels that the US is: very,very concerned-this is the most concerned I've heard them about Russia in a long,long time.* The Voice of America recalled that US Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland had visited Moscow last month,but failed to resolve a dispute over the respective sizes of the US Embassy in Moscow and the Russian Embassy in Washington.There is also tension over Russian control over the natural gas supply to Ukraine and Europe for the coming winter,with fears that Russia will use natural gas to blackmail its neighbours.Some experts believe that Putin's ultimate aim may be to reabsorb Ukraine into Russia,given recent articles written by both him and Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev disparaging Ukrainian statehood.* Maxar Technologies Inc (MAXR)

Networked Warfare: Exercise Sea Breeze 2020

Bi-lateral US-Ukraine Naval Exercise Sea Breeze 2020 got underway in the Black Sea on 20 July and runs until 26 July.NATO'S Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 is taking part with it's three frigates from Romania,Spain and Turkey.On 20 July, tactical manoeuvring drills were held.*
Participating in SB20 are 27 ships,19 aircraft and some 2,000 personnel from eight countries: Bulgaria, Georgia,Norway, Romania, Spain, Turkey, Ukraine and the US.Multiple warfighting skillsets will be covered in the challenging scenarios:
Maritime Interdiction operations;air defence; anti-submarine warfare; damage control; and search and rescue.*
According to CDR Craig Trent,CO of guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78):
These exercises will allow us to learn and grow from our partner nations, increasing our interoperability and overall effectiveness as a fighting force.*
Besides the Porter,a P-8A Poseidon Maritime Surveillance Aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 47 will participate, for a total of about 400 US Sailors.*
SB20 is the twentieth iteration of the drills, which aim to increase capability and strengthen regional security.It is the USS Porter's third mission in the Black Sea this year.The Porter is forward-deployed to Rota,Spain along with three other US Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to support US national security interests in Europe and Africa.*
After the Exercise,SNMG 2 will conduct a patrol toward the Mediterranean Sea, enhancing regional stability.Ukraine is providing military and civilian infrastructure of the Black Sea coast in support of the event;while the US is helping financially, technologically and by providing hardware.*
The Black Sea Region is seen as a critical area of interest by Russia, which illegally occupies Ukraine's Crimea and parts of Georgia in the region.Hence Alliance networked attack operations and long-range strike operations are reportedly within the unspoken substance of the drills.*
Sea Breeze 2020 is being overseen by RADM Oleksii Neizhpapa, Commander of Naval Forces,Armed Forces of Ukraine; and VADM Gene Black, Commander,U.S. 6th Fleet.*

US Navy Strategy in Europe: Admiral Foggo and SecNav Braithwaite

Two senior US Navy officials, ADM James G. Foggo III and new Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite II recently spoke about the US Navy's goals in Europe on the "On the Horizon" podcast.Admiral Foggo (rhymes with "logo") is Commander,US Navy Forces Europe and Africa and Commander, Joint Forces Command Naples.Mr.Braithwaite had a long career in the US Navy and US Navy Reserves, and was most recently US Ambassador to Norway.Both men are graduates of the US Naval Academy.Indeed,they knew each other while they were midshipmen there.*
Admiral Foggo spoke about Exercise BALTOPS in the Baltic Sea:
We demonstrated that the US Navy is able to operate anywhere,at any time, and under any conditions.It was a terrific opportunity to improve interoperability and warfighting skills while learning from each other.*
Admiral Foggo also explained the
Navy role in the Black Sea and our relationship with Ukraine:
Security in the Black Sea remains one of our mutual areas of interest.This is why we continue to operate in the Black Sea.We operate there to send the message that we will uphold international law and norms.Our collective efforts will lead to a safer and better Ukraine, which means a better and safer Black Sea for all of us.
We recently had the guided-missile​ destroyers USS Porter (DDG 78) and the dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group in the Black Sea.That both of them were operating in the Black Sea at the same time is a demostration to our NATO Allies and Partners of our continuing commitment...So it's the third time that NATO ships have operated in the Black Sea in 2020, and the second time the US Navy has operated in the Black Sea in 2020.This is nothing new...Other examples include replenishment operations with Turkish oilers... and a PASSEX (passing exercise) with our Georgian Partners.*
Secretary Braithwaite said:
I'd like to re-emphasize the importance of the Alliance that we have...I'm a big NATOist...You know how strong of an opinion I have about this trans-atlantic partnership... We stood with you in the dark days of World War II, and we continue to stand with you, for whatever challenges emerge-not just in Europe, but around the globe... Exercise Trident Juncture (with some 50,000 NATO and Partner troops) was an entire success under your leadership (Admiral Foggo) - it demonstrated our fortitude as well as reminding those who would challenge our interests on the seas as well as well as shoreside, of what our interest and intent is: to ensure that freedom rings true for those who​ embrace democracy.
Looking to the future, I want to make sure we build the right fleet to meet the challenges and threats of the future.
Why is the Baltic Sea so important and why is naval presence so important up there?It is a constricted waterway by the Danish Straits, but, you know,it is a critical artery of commerce with up to 15% of the world's cargo traffic transiting through that region, and a lot of nations bordering on that sea-many of them friends.So this dynamic security environment demands cooperation to ensure freedom of movement, and consequently economic prosperity.And that requires a commitment from regional Partners and Allies, and certainly from NATO.So every Baltic country has something powerful to contribute.*
Secretary Braithwaite served as a maritime patrol aviator and public affairs officer,retiring as a Rear Admiral,lower level and Vice Chief of Information.His decorations include the Legion of Merit; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat "V"; and Iraqi Campaign Medal.*

Black Sea Patrol: Large Air Drills Show NATO'S Mettle

On 29 May 2020,a Bomber Task Force mission was executed over Europe and the Black Sea Region.It was historic in that, for the first time ever,a BTF mission integrated B-1B Lancer strategic bombers with Ukrainian Su-27 Flankers,MiG-29 Fulcrums and Turkish KC-135 refueling tankers.*

The long-range, long duration mission involved interoperability training in the Black Sea Region with theatre Allies and Partners, enhancing resilience and building enduring relationships to confront the broad range of global challenges the Alliance faces today.The mission provided a clear deterrence message to any adversary, according to US Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa commander GEN Jeff Harrington:
The integration of our strategic bomber presence across Europe proves that the US, alongside our Ally or Partner,stands ready to deter, and if needed, can employ these capabilities together.*
Also integrating with the Lancers were Polish F-16s and MiG-29s, and Romanian F-16s and MiG-21s, providing bomber escort and combat patrol overwatch in the Black Sea Region,USAFE said.Refueling for the long haul flights by the B-1Bs, which flew all the way from Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota,as well as the escort and patrol aircraft, was provided by KC-135s from RAF Mildenhall and Incirlik Air Base, Turkey.Other NATO refueling aircraft also participated.*
Finally, the B-1Bs integrated with Hellenic Air Force F-16s for an air policing mission over Skopje, North Macedonia.North Macedonia is NATO's newest member.*
Summing up, Supreme Allied Commander Europe GEN Tod Wolters,USAF, noted that:
These strategic missions enhance the readiness and training necessary to respond to any potential crisis or challenge around the globe.*

US Army Armored Brigade Drills in the Baltics

From 13-15 January 2015,Soldiers of the US Army's 1st Battalion,9th Cavalry Regiment,2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team,1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood,Texas conducted exercises including live fire at the Pabrade Training Area,Lithuania.In the course of the drills,teams moved across the range responding to contact with the enemy,according to the Army's 241st Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.Platoon-size elements cleared the lane by approaching the contact point.The 1-9 CAV "Headhunters" utilised their M1A2 Abrams tanks;M2A3 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles (BFVs);and M113 Armored Personnel Carriers.The unit is currently serving in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve,which aims to boslter NATO Allies' confidence in US assistance,while deterring aggression by our adversaries.It was instituted in light of Russia's seizure of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014,as well as its participation in and backing of an insurgency in Eastern Ukraine,which continues to this day.*
The live fire exercises in Lithuania were intended to improve 1-9 CAV's response to enemy fire.Additionally,1-9 CAV conducted a trench-clearing drill on 15 January at Pabrade.Dismounting from an M2A3 BFV,Soldiers entered the trench to clear any enemies or obstacles from it.*

Bomber Task Force Arrives in Europe as Destroyer Enters Black Sea

On the night of 10 October 2019,at least four US Air Force B-52H Stratofortress heavy bombers departed Barksdale AFB, Louisiana on a flight to RAF Fairfield, England.The 2nd Bomb Wing aircraft are set to conduct integration and interoperability training with European Allies and Partners,USAF Global Strike Command said.The BTF will exercise the ability of USAF Global Strike Command to conduct bomber operations from a Forward Operating Base in support of US Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and US European Command (EUCOM) mission objectives.*
The training by Airmen in a joint environment will greatly enhance global stability and security while familiarising them with operations in a different region,GSC added. Details of future operations will not be disclosed in the interest of operational security,GSC stated.*
Contributing to our ready and​ postured forces, the deployment will build enduring and strategic relationships necessary to confront a broad range of global challenges, according to USAFE.*
Meanwhile, the guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78) has entered the Black Sea and made a port call at Odessa, Ukraine.Five Ukrainian officers will observe sea-and-anchor operations on the Porter.US 6th Fleet said:
These operations enhance regional maritime stability, combined readiness and naval capability with our NATO Allies and Black Sea Partners.*
The ongoing series of robust operations began when Russia invaded and annexed Crimea, Ukraine and backed subversion in Eastern Ukraine in 2014.*
The Porter transited the Bosphorus Strait on 12 October, Turkish ship spotters reported.*
The naval operations also demonstrate the US commitment to freedom of navigation in that Russia considers the Black Sea its sphere of interest.Earlier in the year, Russian forces fired on and seized two Ukrainian Navy vessels and imprisoned 24 Ukrainian Sailors for transiting the Kerch Strait in the Black Sea Region.The Sailors were recently released in a prisoner exchange with Russia.*

The Donbas War:US Air Force Spy Plane Arrives as Ukraine Sets Up Its New Naval Base

A new front in the Donbas War in Eastern Ukraine may be opening up in the Sea of Azov,a bay-like body of water at the top of the Black Sea fronted by Ukraine to the west and Russia to the east.And with this development,the United States has taken a step in greater involvement in the conflict by sending a sophisticated reconnaissance aircraft to possibly assist NATO partner Ukraine with intelligence support for the naval base project.
On 22 September 2018,the Russian FSB (KGB successor) announced that ships of the FSB Coast Guard were dispatched to intercept two Ukrainian Navy ships that had entered the "exclusive economic zone" near Russian-annexed Crimea.These intercepted ships were the Ukrainian Navy's A 500 Donbas search&rescue ship and A 830 Korets seagoing tug.They had departed from Odessa,Ukraine on 20 September and were enroute to Mariupol and then Berdyansk,where the new naval base is going up.The two Ukrainian vessels were accompanied by small armoured artillery boats P 177 Kremenchuk and P 178 Lubny,which had been dispatched from the port of Berdyansk to support the Donbas and the Korets.
Meanwhile,at about 1200 hours local time,a US Air Force RC-135 Rivet Joint reconnaissance aircraft began operations over the Kerch Strait area.The Kerch Strait is the narrow channel between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.Crossing the Strait is an illegal Russian-built bridge connecting the Taman Peninsula to Crimea which has been criticised by Ukraine and NATO.*
One of the FSB armed Coast Guard ships was the patrol ship Ametist (project 22460) which,with two other unidentified FSB patrol ships intercepted the Ukrainian Navy ships when they passed the Crimean city of Sevastopol.One of the FSB Coast Guard ships violated international norms by coming too close to the Ukrainians.Recall that the Ukrainian ships were transiting the Black Sea at this point to reach the Sea of Azov by way of the Kerch Strait.*
The Ukrainian ship Donbas will strengthen the Ukrainian Navy's fleet infrastructure on the Sea of Azov,helping establish the headquarters,barracks,warehouses and other critical facilities which are currently lacking.As well,on 12 September,Colonel General Serhiy Popko,commander,Ukrainian Ground Forces,said Ukraine would augment its ground forces near the Sea of Azov with permanent territorial defence structures,missile and artillery forces,plus Ukrainian Air Force assets,to provide a "reliable coastal defence."*
The RC-135V is considered a premier SIGINT collection platform.The US Air Force has 17 RC-135s,which are converted Boeing airliners that have been operational and upgraded since 1964.The RC-135 has participated in every major conflict since that time,and the UK has acquired its own Rivet Joint aircraft.*
As the Ukrainian ships approached the Kerch Strait,they were met by more than 10 FSB Coast Guard ships and Russian Navy warships,while also being buzzed by low-flying Russian aircraft.Nonetheless,the Ukrainian Navy ships made it safely to their objective.*
The Stratfor Company,a noted consultancy and publisher in the strategic and international studies field,made the following remarks on the Sea of Azov crisis:
The military buildup could lead to growing economic disruption of shipping in and out of the sea.Russia is stronger than Ukraine on the sea,but robust US support for Kiev could alter the situation in the area.
As a result of growing tensions,a flare-up is now entirely possible,especially if the United States brings its weight to bear in the conflict.*
The Boeing Company (BA)

Rapid Trident 18:Preparing Ukraine for NATO

From 3-15 September 2018,troops from 14 nations assembled at Ukraine's International Peacekeeping and Security Centre in Yavoriv for two weeks of intensive training.The Rapid Trident 18 drills were aimed at building the sophistication of the Ukrainian Land Forces while strengthening the bonds with and between the multinational cohort.Ukraine aspires to NATO membership,as does the Republic of Georgia.As part of their path to NATO,both nations must undertake defence reform to ensure their interoperability with Alliance and partner forces.
Those militaries participating in RT 18 included: Azerbaijan;Bulgaria;Canada;Denmark;Georgia;Germany;Lithuania;Moldova;Poland;as well as Romania;Turkey;the UK;Ukraine;and the US.
The annual exercise builds military interoperability through establishing professional relationships and fostering camaraderie in the process of building Ukraine's sustainable training capacity and supporting defence reform,according to US 7th Army Training Command.*
The multinational forces served as trainers,observers and mentors throughout the situational training in platoon-level tasks such as border control and security;cordon and search;medevac and combat lifesaving;convoy security;reaction to contact;countering IEDs;bomb disposal;checkpoint security;observation post operations;drone usage for aerial observation;and armour manoeuvre and tactics. The second week of the drills combined all the training objectives into a live action field exercise for the Ukrainian training battalions,which included the Ukrainian Special Forces;Conventional Forces;National Guard;and Border Guard.
Representing the US were about 100 Soldiers from the California Army National Guard and around 200 from the Tennessee Army National Guard,which is currently serving a nine-month deployment at Joint Multinational Training Group-Ukraine.The US National Guard units have developed very strong ties with the Ukrainian Land Forces over several years of staffing the JMTG-U.

Russian Fighter Endangers US Navy Surveillance Plane Over Black Sea - USN destroyer enters the sea

Even as the USS James E Williams (DDG-95),an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer,transited the Bosphorus Strait and entered the Black Sea on 26 November last weekend,a Russian Su-30 fighter jet endangered a US Navy P-8A Poseidon Maritime Surveillance Aircraft flying over the Black Sea by its unprofessional antics,the Pentagon said.The P-8A was flying in international airspace when the Su-30 crossed in front of it from right to left with afterburners flaring.The resultant jet wash caused the Poseidon to roll 15 degrees and experience violent turbulence,Pentagon spokeswoman Lieutenant Colonel Michelle Baldanza told CNN.The Poseidon had its transponder on,but the Su-30 came within 50 ft. of the P-8A.The entire incident lasted about 24 minutes.*
The USS James E Williams was seen and filmed transiting the Bosphorus by ship spotter hobbyists.It is expected to make a port call at Odessa,Ukraine,a Navy spokesperson told USNI News.*
The US Navy periodically sends warships into the Black Sea to establish NATO presence and reassure NATO Allies along the sea such as Romania and Bulgaria.Under international law,they are allowed to stay for a period of up to 21 days.*
The Poseidon may be armed with cruise missiles,naval mines and torpedoes.The James E Williams is armed with a full suite of missiles,torpedoes and guns and can embark two SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopters.