Image by Oleg V. Belyakov
Antonov An-26, Ukraine – Air Force
In October Ukraine will hold its largest aviation exercise in history called Clear Sky 2018 at Starokostiantyniv Air Base in Ukraine. The United States will participate along with 8 other NATO nations stated the Pentagon.
The Trump administration has robustly supported the Ukrainian government in its fight against pro-Russian separatists in the Donbass region of East Ukraine. The Pentagon has been directed to provide anti-tank missiles, heavy sniper rifles, and other non-lethal equipment. There is discussion of upgrading Ukrainian naval and air force capability.
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“Training will focus on air sovereignty, air interdiction, air-to-ground integration, air mobility operations, aeromedical evacuation, cyber defense, and personnel recovery,” a statement from U.S. Air Forces in Europe said. “This exercise aims to enhance regional capabilities to secure air sovereignty and promote peace and security through cooperation, collaboration and interoperability with [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] partners and other allies in the region,” reported UPI.
The exercise will involve about 950 personnel from Belgium, Britain, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Ukraine and the United States. The California Air National Guard will participate using F-15C Eagle and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
