Belarusian Military Conducts Extensive Surprise Inspection of Air Defenses

The Belarusian Armed Forces have been conducting a surprise inspection of their air force and air defense troops for nearly three months, according to the Belaruski Gayun project. The inspection, which was prompted by the high concentration of NATO troops near Belarus' borders, aims to check the readiness and operational capabilities of the air defense forces on duty.

Why this matters: The surprise inspection highlights Belarus' efforts to strengthen its air defense capabilities in response to the increased NATO presence near its borders, which could have significant implications for regional security. This move could also spark a chain reaction of military build-ups and exercises in the region, further escalating tensions.

Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin revealed that the inspection tasks were unexpected for the participants, with only a small circle of people aware of the plans. "That's why it's called a 'surprise inspection', because all events are held suddenly. A very small circle of people who define the idea knows about them. Those units that were operating today as part of a surprise inspection did not know anything about it at all," Khrenin stated.

The Belarusian military's focus on enhancing its air defense capabilities comes amidst ongoing NATO military drills near the country's borders. "We note the high level of operational and combat training events. For example, to date, six military drills are taking place on the territory of our neighbouring countries as part of the Defender Europe manoeuvres," Khrenin pointed out.

As part of its efforts to strengthen its air defenses, the Belarusian Air Force and Air Defence Forces are currently receiving cutting-edge equipment, including SU 30-SM aircraft, MI-35M helicopters, and S-400 Triumf air defense systems. The surprise inspection has been ongoing for an extended period, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the forces' readiness and capabilities.

The inspection's preliminary results have already been summed up, but the detailed findings will be announced at a later date. The extensive duration of the inspection, spanning nearly three months, underscores the Belarusian military's commitment to ensuring the effectiveness and preparedness of its air defense forces in the face of potential threats posed by the increased NATO presence near its borders.

Key Takeaways

• Belarus conducts surprise inspection of air force and air defense troops due to NATO's presence near borders.
• Inspection aims to check readiness and operational capabilities of air defense forces on duty.
• Belarus receives cutting-edge equipment, including SU 30-SM aircraft and S-400 Triumf air defense systems.
• Inspection has been ongoing for nearly three months to assess forces' readiness and capabilities.
• Preliminary results have been summed up, with detailed findings to be announced later.