Russia promised a response to the strike on the beach in Crimea on Orthodox Pentecost Sunday. At least a part of that response may be coming into view. We have seen at least two downings of US drones in Syria this week, and there have been rumors of actions taken against US drones over the Black Sea. These actions are very important, because the drones are used for target designation and guidance of precision missiles. Part of the context here is the increased chatter about US and other NATO “contractors” going to Ukraine to operate advanced weapons systems, which will rely on such targeting and guidance—the US is not about to turn over such sensitive tech to the Ukrainians. Of course, as in the past, the chatter about future events probably means the reality is in place—increased numbers of US troops are probably present and operating, replacing dead Ukrainians. Doug Macgregor mentioned yesterday that the Ukrainians suffered 13,000 KIA last week alone. Where US troops go, the tech goes, too.
Long overdue. But Putin takes a long view, and has judged now is the time, not any sooner.
I would imagine Putin was briefed on the US spectacle last night. Or maybe he suffered the a replay to see for himself. In any case, Russian staff must be watching the Dems next moves carefully. Or not?
These RQ-4B Global Hawks cost about $130m each.
So? Printing press go brrrrrrrr
increased surveillance is one item on the old execution checklist for up coming operations.
No one is dialing down
Long overdue. But Putin takes a long view, and has judged now is the time, not any sooner.
I would imagine Putin was briefed on the US spectacle last night. Or maybe he suffered the a replay to see for himself. In any case, Russian staff must be watching the Dems next moves carefully. Or not?
FAFO
If true about the drones, this is long overdue. No "freedom of navigation" laws can justify using drones to guide terrorist attacks.