US and UK conduct reconnaissance missions over the Black Sea
As reported by Defense Romania, the United States and the United Kingdom conducted strategic research missions near the Romanian coast and the Black Sea. For this purpose, reconnaissance aircraft RC-135V and RC-135W, often called flying spies, were used. The name alludes to their capabilities in conducting photographic and electronic surveillance.
As explained by Defense Romania, on 20 March, a British Boeing RC-135W Rivet Joint aircraft with the side number ZZ665 and the radio call sign RRR7220 appeared over Romania. Two Typhoon fighters escorted it, and an Airbus KC.2 tanker was nearby. On the same day, an American RC-135V Rivet Joint aircraft with the side number 64-14841 and the radio call sign JAKE17 also flew over Romania. In the air were also US-owned P-8A Poseidon and Bombardier Challenger 650 aircraft.
Flying spies over Romania
The route taken by the aircraft could be followed by services that show real-time aircraft movement. According to the Romanian service, "ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) missions conducted by American and British research aircraft were likely aimed at gathering information on Russian military movements in the Black Sea region." Defense Romania does not rule out that information collected during the flights will help Ukrainians carry out new attacks using drones and manoeuvring missiles on Russian targets, including on the Crimean Peninsula.
It’s worth mentioning that Romania is playing an increasingly significant role in NATO’s actions on the eastern flank. As we have already reported, Romania is to host the largest NATO base in Europe. Bucharest has allocated £2.1 billion for its construction. The investment includes, among others, new runways and aircraft hangars, as well as schools, kindergartens, stores, and a hospital. According to plans, the base will cover an area of approximately 30,000 hectares and will be able to house up to 10,000 soldiers permanently.
"The Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base has long been a key NATO hub, and further investments in this location will strengthen allied deterrence and defence. In response to Russia's aggressive war, NATO has strengthened its presence in the east of the Alliance by deploying a new battle group in Romania and increasing its air presence. During the July summit, we will take further steps to strengthen NATO deterrent and defence capabilities," NATO’s WP Tech conveyed in response to questions about the alliance’s plans related to the base in Romania.
What are the Boeing RC-135V/W Rivet Joint aircraft?
The Boeing RC-135V/W Rivet Joint aircraft are reconnaissance planes designed and manufactured by Boeing for the United States Air Force (USAF). They are an advanced version of the RC-135, also known as "Airseeker". These aircraft have sensors for tracking and identifying geolocation signals in the electromagnetic spectrum. The plane can detect and identify electromagnetic radiation emissions, radar emissions, and electronic or communication emissions. The intercepted data are transmitted to operational centres via secure satellite communication links.
The aircraft are 41.1 metres in length, 12.8 metres in height, and have a wingspan of 39.9 metres. Their maximum takeoff weight is over 133,000 kilograms. The RC-135W Rivet Joint can fly at a maximum speed of approximately 870 km/h; its range is about 6,500 kilometres. Two pilots and one navigator operate the RC-135V/W Rivet Joint. The RC-135W also carries a crew delegated to carry out specific tasks as part of the strategic or tactical mission being undertaken and conducted surveillance.
