Ukraine Launches Large Air Force Exercises With NATO Countries

'Clear Sky' operation intended to protect airspace

Ukraine announced the beginning of the Clear Sky 2018 operation in the west of Ukraine. The operation centers on warplanes focusing on coordinated air defense, with Ukraine presenting it as preparation to “protect the airspace” from Russia.

The US and several other NATO nations are participating in this operation,which is to last until October 19. Ukraine emphasized the idea of coordination with Poland and Romania, two nations that they border.

Ukraine has been keen to push the idea that Russia is an imminent military threat to them, to the point where for the past several years, top Ukrainian officials have suggested World War 3 will start over Ukrainian territory.

US planes involved in the operation include the F-15C Eagle and the C-130J military transport, along with unspecified combat drones, which are being sent to train. 700 NATO troops are to participate as well.

Author: Jason Ditz

Jason Ditz is Senior Editor for Antiwar.com. He has 20 years of experience in foreign policy research and his work has appeared in The American Conservative, Responsible Statecraft, Forbes, Toronto Star, Minneapolis Star-Tribune, Providence Journal, Washington Times, and the Detroit Free Press.