Top U.S. Air Force General In Europe And Africa: Russia Has 'Closed The Gap' With U.S., NATO Air Power

National Defense: Air Force Leaders Warn Russia Closing Gap With U.S.

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — Russia is modernizing its air force, deploying advanced air defenses and training its pilots specifically to thwart U.S. operations in Europe. The Russian air force has become “more professional” and has better equipment than it did a decade ago, said Gen. Frank Gorenc, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander.

“The advantage that we have from the air, I can honestly say, is shrinking,” Gorenc said Sept. 14 at a news conference at the Air Force Association’s annual symposium. Russia’s advances are not just in the form of new aircraft but also in pilot tactics and their ability to “deny” access to enemy aircraft.

WNU Editor: Not really. In terms of numbers, capabilities, avionics, refuelling capabilities, weapon systems .... U.S. and NATO are still ahead of what the Russian air force can field. But it is true .... if the F-35 program does not meet what is expected of it .... and if Russia's T-50 exceeds expectations (coupled with Russian advances in air defense systems) .... in a few years U.S. and NATO air superiority may be a thing of the past.

More News On US Air Force General Frank Gorenc's Concerns That Russia Is 'Closing The Gap' With U.S. And NATO Air Power

USAFE commander: Russia catching up with Air Force -- Air Force Times
Russia Has 'Closed the Gap' With U.S., NATO Air Power -- AIN Online
U.S. Air Force cites 'alarming' Russian strides in air power -- Reuters
AFA 2015: Russia has closed air power gap with NATO, US warn -- IHS Hane's 360
Russia 'Closing Gap' Between US with Newer Air Defenses, General Says -- Military.com
USAFE commander warns of Russia's growing air power -- UPI
'Alarming' Russian Arms Buildup Said To Have Closed Gap With U.S. -- Radio Free Europe
Russians ‘Closed The Gap’ For A2/AD: Air Force Gen. Gorenc -- Breaking Defense
U.S. Air Force General: Russia Increasing Air Strength -- HNGN
US Air Force General: The Russians Have Closed the Gap -- Sputnik
Europe: The Russian Bear is back -- Air Force Times