Russian Fighter Jet’s Dangerous Proximity to US Warplane Raises Concerns in Syria

In a concerning incident on Sunday, a Russian fighter jet came dangerously close to a U.S. surveillance aircraft over Syria, compelling it to navigate through turbulent air currents, thereby endangering the lives of the four American crew members onboard, according to U.S. officials. This occurrence marks a significant escalation in a series of encounters between U.S. and Russian aircraft in Syrian airspace in recent weeks. The intercept by the Russian Su-35 hindered the safe operation of the U.S. crew’s MC-12 aircraft, prompting officials to label it as a highly unsafe act that could potentially lead to an accident or loss of life.

While Russian fighter jets have previously engaged in repeated harassment of U.S. unmanned MQ-9 drones, the latest incident has raised alarms due to the direct risk it posed to American lives.

The officials, speaking anonymously to discuss military operations, refrained from disclosing the exact proximity between the Russian jet and the U.S. warplane. The MC-12, a twin-engine turboprop aircraft regularly employed by special operations forces, was conducting surveillance activities in support of operations against Islamic State groups in Syria, as per the officials.

Over the past two weeks, Russian fighter jets have repeatedly approached MQ-9 Reapers in a dangerously close manner, resulting in the drones deploying flares and evasive maneuvers. During such encounters, U.S. and Russian military officers maintain frequent communication via a deconfliction phone line, registering protests against the actions of the opposing side.

In response to the escalating Russian aggression in Syrian airspace, the U.S. is currently evaluating various military options. These actions have complicated efforts to target an Islamic State group leader earlier this month, according to a senior defense official. While the official declined to provide specific details on the options being considered, they affirmed that the U.S. will not relinquish any territory and will continue conducting anti-Islamic State missions in the western region of Syria.

The increased frequency and aggression of Russian military activities since March can be attributed to the growing cooperation and coordination between Moscow, Tehran, and the Syrian government. These actions aim to exert pressure on the U.S. to withdraw from Syria.

Presently, approximately 900 U.S. forces are stationed in the country, with additional personnel rotating in and out for missions targeting Islamic State group militants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about escalating tensions

More about escalating tensions

• Russian fighter jet flies dangerously close to US warplane over Syria – CNN
• US and Russian aircraft have series of close calls in Syria – The Guardian
• Russian fighter jet endangers US warplane over Syria – Reuters