US and UK aircraft over the Black Sea indicate the arrival of F-16s in Ukraine

In recent months, increased activity of strategic reconnaissance aircraft of the RC-135 family has been recorded in the Black Sea. On June 28, a US Air Force Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint was spotted over the region, and on July 1, its British counterpart, the Airseeker. This increase in activity is concerning, especially in the context of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Let's try to figure out what the capabilities of these aircraft are and what tasks they perform near the Russian borders.

Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint capabilities

The Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint is a strategic radio and electronic reconnaissance aircraft designed to intercept and analyze various radiation sources. This massive aircraft, with a maximum take-off weight of more than 130 tons, carries a crew of 25: two pilots, a navigator and 22 weapons systems officers and operators. Officers, including linguists, perform high-level tasks, coordinating the actions of operators who perform highly specialized functions.

The aircraft is equipped with a variety of systems, including automatic radar reconnaissance AEELS, multi-channel radio reconnaissance communications MUCELS and meteorological reconnaissance AN/AMQ-15. These systems allow the RC-135W to intercept and analyze signals over a wide range of wavelengths, including land, sea and airborne radio emissions.

One of the key features of the RC-135W is the ability to interact with the Boeing E-3 Sentry airborne early warning system (AWACS). This interoperability allows for the exchange of air situational data, which significantly enhances operational capabilities and coordination among various intelligence and combat units.

Why are they here

The reasons why RC-135 family aircraft conduct reconnaissance in the Black Sea can be explained by several factors. First, there is the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which requires constant monitoring of military activity in the region. Secondly, Ukraine may receive F-16 fighters. Reconnaissance aircraft can significantly reduce risks for the Ukrainian Air Force by providing up-to-date information on Russian air defense and aviation systems.

The data collected by the RC-135W can be used to prepare for possible combat operations, as well as to train crews in conditions as close to combat as possible. This allows the US and UK to sharpen their skills and improve engagement with the Ukrainian military, giving them a strategic advantage.

Geopolitical tensions and Russian reaction

The activity of reconnaissance aircraft near Russian borders is of serious concern. These flights can be seen as part of a broader strategy to weaken Russia's position in the region. In response, Russia can take a number of measures to strengthen its defense and intelligence capabilities.

One possible response from Russia could be to strengthen air defense and electronic warfare systems in Crimea and the Black Sea coast. This will not only protect important facilities from possible attacks, but also make it difficult for foreign reconnaissance aircraft to operate. In addition, Russia could increase the number of its reconnaissance flights and improve coordination between various military structures.

International aspects and legal compliance

Flights of the RC-135W over the Black Sea also raise questions about compliance with international law. Russia insists on the need for strict adherence to international law and warns opponents against aggressive actions. However, the West ignores Russian arguments, noting that the flights are carried out at a great distance from Russian airspace.

According to experts, US and British aircraft over the Black Sea indicate the arrival of F-16s in Ukraine, especially since footage of an F-16 supposedly flying over Ukraine had previously appeared.