Deptula referred to this way to US President Donald Trump's claims that the invasion of “could have been a mistake” and that the drones sent by Russia could be out of control.
– According to my professional assessment, It was not a mistake, but a deliberate provocation. The most serious violation of NATO airspace in recent years – said Deptula, currently the head of the Mitchell Institute, a think tank specializing in aviation.
– (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin simply checks NATO's determination. It is impossible to send 20 drones across the NATO border by accident, especially since this attack lasted for six hours, and these drones had additional fuel tanks attached to increase the range. There is no indication of this in case – explained the expert. He added This evidence also contradicts Russian translations and excuses, including with a limited range of unmanned aerial artists.
Russian drones over Poland. The general does not criticize the use of F-16 aircraft
The general, who was the deputy chief of staff for intelligence and recognition at the USA headquarters of the USA and dealt with the policy for the use of drones, positively assessed Poland and NATO's response to the incident. He disagreed with the voices of criticism pointing out the use of fighters, including the F-35 and Amraam rocket for precipitating Russian machines.
– I think you have to be careful with these arguments: we didn't know exactly what the drones are flying, what heads they have and just think what would happen if such a load would land on a house. Is human life less worth than a rocket used to knock down a drone? Deptula asked rhetorically.
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However, he stated that In the long run, it is necessary to create a multi -layered, integrated air defense system that would be adapted to neutralize all types of missiles. He added that he should also be integrated with Ukrainian systems, which have the most experience in dealing with these threats.
NATO needs deterrent tool
However, as the expert pointed out, a truly effective way to respond to Russian invasion is not a reaction and defense against future threats, but their deterrence.
– First of all, it is necessary to clearly define the red line, according to which every drone, bullet or plane entering NATO airspace without permission will be treated as hostile and shot down. No exceptions, no excuses. Secondly, NATO forces should be moved forward. Above Poland, in the Baltic countries, 24 -hour air patrols must be conducted, reinforced with fighters, tankers and air aircraft of warning and control from the US and allies. Luki in Poland's air defense must be filled with additional Earth-Blateri Batteries, integrated both with the NATO command and control system and from Ukraine-enumerated Deptula.
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– Thirdly, the transfer of modern air forces to Ukraine should be accelerated. The best way to protect NATO airspace is to stop Russian drones and bullets before they approach the borders of NATO, and this means more F-16 aircraft for Ukraine, Earth's missiles with a greater range and the abolition of all restrictions on their use by Ukraine-he added.
Retaliation options. “Shoot in the archer, not an arrow”
He stated, however, that at least equally important, however, it is to prepare retaliation options and communicate to the Russians that NATO reserves the right not only to knock down bullets, but also to hit the places where they were launched, according to the principle “Shoot the archer, not an arrow“.
– This is not an escalation, it is deterrent, because only raising costs for Moscow, Putin will stop his aggression. So I think this is a decisive moment for the alliance. If NATO hesitates, it risks the loss of credibility, which ensures the security of Europe – noted General Deptula.
Read also: “Shoot up the drones over Ukraine.” A strong voice from the Bundestag
On the night of Tuesday to Wednesday, during the Russian Federation attack on Ukraine, the Polish airspace was repeatedly violated by drones. Defense procedures were launched. Polish and allied radar systems followed several facilities; In the case of those who may pose a threat, it was decided to neutralize.
