(CNN) Americas newest weapon, the F-35, in the skies over Eastern Europe, right where confrontations with Russia frequently happen: CNN was given exclusive access to the U.S. Stealth combat jets first ever forward deployment training with allied air forces. <\/p>\n
Major Bryan Blackburn, of the U.S. Air Force said it was an essential experience for the crews. Were continuing to forward deploy and bolster our NATO allies. Its all about inter cooperation and just bolstering the NATO Alliance. <\/p>\n
A tanker plane refueled the F-35 as they transited to Estonia, A country right on the border with Russia and worried about Moscows aggressive posture in recent years. With the deployment of the F-35 the U.S. is sending a very clear message to both Russia and its NATO partners: That America is willing to commit its newest and most advanced planes to keep its partners safe. <\/p>\n
Russias air force is increasingly flying planes, like the nuclear capable TU-95 bomber, around this area. NATO jets often scrambling to intercept them. President Donald Trump has only recently stopped calling the NATO alliance obsolete. <\/p>\n
Now the F-35 deployment, another welcome sign of American commitment, Estonias Defense Minister, Margus Tsahkna said, This is important to send this message that this is the border of NATO. This is the Eastern border of our values that we are ready to protect. <\/p>\n
As part of this deployment the F-35 crews get to know this contested air space and practice cooperation with other NATO air forces. As tensions with Moscow show no sign of easing, this plane could become a staple of NATOs eastern fringe. <\/p>\n
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