TU-154 in Orléans
On November 22, 2017, a Russian Tupolev Tu-154 made an landing at Orléans-Bricy Air Base 123 (LFOJ), France, during a mission under the Open Skies Treaty. Open Skies Treaty – Russian Observation Flights
Overview of the Open Skies Mission
The Open Skies Treaty, established in 1992, allows participating countries to conduct unarmed aerial surveillance flights over each other's territories to promote transparency and build trust. Russia was a signatory and actively participated in these missions.
Purpose: To build trust and prevent conflict by allowing unarmed aerial observation flights over the territories of the treaty members.
Established: Signed in 1992 and entered into force in 2002.
Participants: Originally included 34 member states, mainly NATO members and former Warsaw Pact countries.
Goals:
Enhance mutual understanding and confidence.
Provide transparency about military forces and activities.
Facilitate the verification of arms control agreements.
Mission Background
The Tu-154 involved in this mission was part of the Russian fleet dedicated to these missions. Designed in the 1960s, the Tupolev Tu-154 was widely used by Eastern Bloc countries, with over 1,000 produced. Although production ceased in 2013, some examples are still in service, notably with the Russian armed forces.
The Open Skies Treaty and the Orléans-Bricy air base
Orléans-Bricy Air Base 123 plays a central role in the implementation of the Open Skies Treaty. It is the only site in France authorized to accommodate foreign aircraft under this treaty. The French Verification Unit (UFV) and the base's Open Skies Section (SCO) actively participate in the coordination and supervision of observation missions, ensuring compliance with international rules and commitments.
A promoting international cooperation
The Open Skies Treaty is a key example of a mission designed to promote international cooperation through aerial surveillance, fostering transparency and mutual understanding among nations
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