” enforcing a no-fly zone over Syria? We could do that, but it would mean aerial combat taking place between US and Russian aircraft.”
I’m no military expert, but I consider this effort a towering mistake bearing no possible gain and fraught with terrible risks.
First, undoubtedly the Russians have installed their S-300 and perhaps S-400 anti-aircraft systems, or they would, in very short order. I am not especially advocating fearing these systems but they are not toys.
The argument could be made that we should sacrifice a few planes and men to probe the effectiveness of the S-300/S-400. I find that ghoulish but perhaps smarter people than I would consider that a valuable enterprise.
I do NOT think the US could enforce any sort of no-fly zone there. Repeat: Do NOT. It would be seen as a fruitless effort and we need no more encouragement for our enemies to adventure farther.
Russia has very serious interest in Syria, whether we understand the depth of it or not. We have little or no interest there and the US public is blitheringly tired of endless Mideast wars. I say, there isn’t squat we can do about Russian activities in the ME short of starting a hot war with Russia which is 500 millions times LESS worth it than the ME already is.
They are effective, no need to test anything.
If anything the Russians have established a no fly zone against us providing air support to ISIS/Rebels/anti-Assad forces/Al Nusra/whatever the group of the day is called/Islamic terrorist.
This is real...