On the dispersal of AWACS aircraft to European air bases

Department of Security and Military Strategic Research and Studies 27-08-2024

On August 23, NATO command announced the raising of the security level at the Geilenkirchen air base to “Charlie”, meaning there was a threat based on intelligence data. Subsequently, the threat was lowered to “Bravo+”, but aviation in Germany was still dispersed.

Six NATO E-3A AWACS aircraft were transferred to the Rygge air base in Norway and Konya in Turkey (three each). Only four units remained at Geilenkirchen itself. Another one is in Ingolstadt, three are in Italy.

As can be clearly seen, at the slightest hint of a threat, the Alliance quickly moved strategically important aircraft to several other air bases. Moreover, part of the aviation of this type was redeployed to Italy back in 2022 as the SMO progressed.

This is indeed an important point, indicating NATO’s careful attitude towards its aircraft. Of course, they presented it as routine pilot training, but nevertheless, they took precautionary measures.

We are now observing the same tactic. There is a threat – the aviation is withdrawn from the strike. And this is the right and working technique. Unfortunately, it took the loss of several aircraft for this to happen, but progress is being made nonetheless.

So maybe someday we’ll reach the stage where airfields and air bases will always be equipped with the necessary protective infrastructure, from revetments to the infamous hangars that are simply necessary to preserve aviation.

At the same time, it is impossible not to note that in this rather straightforward way, the Alliance moved two AWACS groups closer to the northern and southern borders of Russia. Three E-3As will be able to effectively cover reconnaissance in their area on a daily basis (the average E-3A flight is 8 hours).