US Deploys 6 Electronic Warfare Specialized Fighters to Germany, Sends 240 Related Personnel

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The U.S. government announced that it will deploy six Navy electronic warfare aircraft and related personnel to Germany. This move is interpreted as a measure to strengthen the defense of NATO's eastern region. However, it was clarified that the deployment is not intended for direct use in the Ukraine war.

According to the New York Times (NYT) on the 28th (local time), the U.S. Department of Defense stated in a press release that it will send six EA-18G Growler aircraft along with 240 personnel, including pilots and technicians, to Germany. The EA-18G is known as an electronic warfare aircraft specialized in disrupting enemy radar and air defense systems during bombing missions using stealth aircraft.

John Kirby, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense, said, "Six EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft from Whidbey Island, Washington, were deployed today to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany," adding, "240 personnel related to the Growlers will also be deployed to Germany to support their new mission." He further explained, "The Growler is equipped to perform various missions, but it is especially specialized in electronic warfare missions that greatly assist in suppressing enemy air defense operations," and "This is to strengthen NATO's collective defense posture and further enhance the air combat capabilities of allied and partner countries."

However, he emphasized that the deployment is not intended for direct confrontation with Russian forces on the Ukrainian front. Kirby stated, "This deployment is not due to any urgent threat detected earlier or a specific incident," and reiterated, "It should be seen as a move to improve and strengthen the defense capabilities of NATO's eastern region."

Brendan Stickles, a former Growler squadron leader, told CNN, "The Growler deployment is a natural step. The Growler prevents NATO aircraft from becoming targets of Russian surface-to-air missiles and can also serve as an early warning system," adding, "The six Growlers will dramatically enhance NATO's electronic warfare response capabilities and even help reduce unintended tensions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.