The US withdrew fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets from the Middle East after Russia stopped air provocations

American fighters of the fifth generation are no longer in the Middle East. This was announced by the head of the US Air Force Central Command, Lieutenant General Alex Grynkewich.

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In recent weeks, Russian jets stopped provoking US pilots and drones in the skies over Syria, although their behaviour was still described as unprofessional. Nevertheless, the US Air Force has decided to bring the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets home.

The aircraft arrived in the region in late July this year in response to Iran's aggressive actions in the Strait of Hormuz, which is a strategic point between the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. One-fifth of the world's oil flows through it. Later, Russian jets shot down two MQ-9 Reaper drones and provoked US pilots.

Following the F-35 Lightning II, the USS Bataan, a landing ship carrying Harrier jets, returned to the United States. Meanwhile, fourth-generation F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters and A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, better known as the Warthog, remain in the region.

Source: Air & Space Forces Magazine