Even if they intercept Russian or Syrian aircraft, the American fighters deployed in Turkey could still not enter the battle because, to date, the rules of engagement have not been established. The confirmation comes directly from the Air Force.
We know that since last month, at the Incirlik base, the US has deployed six F-15Cs, equipped exclusively for air-to-air combat. Their task, as established by the Pentagon, was to "stiffen the Turkish air defenses against Russian interference".
They say from the Air Force. "The F-15Cs were sent at a precise moment, when we believed that Russia was about to increase Turkish border violations. That deployment took place before the downing of the Russian Su-24 by the Turks and subsequent entry into service. of the S-400 / S-300 line. Russian deployments in Syria have complicated everything ".
Problem is, American F-15Cs don't have a target yet. They could only intervene if attacked (but in that case it would be a real act of war). To date, the United States and Turkey have not yet established the rules of engagement for American fighters. The bilateral agreement between the two countries is slow to be reached as well as the procedures in case of violation of the Turkish airspace.
Until the agreement is signed and despite being armed exclusively for air-to-air combat, the F-15Cs will be relegated to the role of mere observers.
(photo: US DoD)
