European fighter jets to fortify Ukrainian airspace: Sky Shield
The Sky Shield project envisions the deployment of European fighter jets over western Ukraine. The initiative seeks to enhance the region's security by protecting airspace that includes nuclear power plants and the cities of Odessa and Lviv.
Deutsche Welle reported that the Sky Shield project involves the deployment of European fighter jets over western Ukraine.
The goal is to secure the airspace over three operational nuclear power plants, the most extensive gas storage facilities in the Styra region, and the cities of Odessa and Lviv. However, it does not extend to the front line or the eastern part of the country.
The initiative is crucial for increasing security in the region, which is vital for the stability of Ukraine.
European air defense initiative
The "Sky Shield" project is a European initiative designed to protect Ukrainian airspace. Proposed by British military experts in 2022, it suggests the deployment of 120 fighter jets from European countries, independent of NATO. The aim is to safeguard Kyiv and western Ukraine from Russian missiles and drones.
The "Sky Shield" plan envisions protecting three nuclear power plants and the cities of Odessa and Lviv, but it excludes the front line and eastern Ukraine. The initiative could be part of the "air truce" proposed by the President of Ukraine, as noted by "Deutsche Welle."
There are concerns in Western political circles that involving NATO fighter jets might escalate the conflict with Russia. However, proponents argue that the risk to pilots is low, as Russia avoids sending its fighters beyond the front line. Supporters include former U.S. General Philip Breedlove and former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis.
Implementing "Sky Shield" would require a coalition fleet of fighter jets such as F-16s, F-35s, Mirages, Eurofighter Typhoons, or JAS 39 Gripens. Operations would occur exclusively over Ukrainian territory, coordinated with its armed forces. The project might gain new momentum amid ongoing ceasefire talks.
