The US Air Force deployed the F-22 Raptor in the Middle East to counter the aggressive actions of the Russian pilots.

The U.S. Central Command reported this.

“U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors deployed to U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility as part of a multifaceted show of U.S. support and capability in the wake of increasingly unsafe and unprofessional behavior by Russian aircraft in the region,” the statement reads.

The redeployed fighter jets belong to the US Air Force’s 94th Fighter Squadron based at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia.

Prior to this, the fighters were located on the territory of Europe.

While in the CENTCOM area, the 94th Fighter Squadron will integrate with coalition forces on the ground and in the air.

“Russian Forces’ unsafe and unprofessional behavior is not what we expect from a professional air force. Their regular violation of agreed-upon airspace deconfliction measures increases the risk of escalation or miscalculation,” said Gen. Michael “Erik” Kurilla, Commander of U.S. Central Command.

This rapid deployment and integration of F-22 fighter jets into coalition operations is a clear demonstration of the commitment shared by partners, allies, and the U.S. to long-term peace and stability in the region.

“Alongside our partners and allies, we are committed to improving the security and stability in the region,” Kurilla added.

In May, US Air Force Lt. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich shared in an interview with Task & Purpose magazine that the Russians had violated deconfliction protocols nearly 100 times in two months.

The actions of the Russians included flying at a distance of up to 150 meters from the American planes and using EW means against them.

In addition, Russian planes armed with air-to-ground missiles flew over American troops in Syria.

Since its formation, the air group of the Russian Air Force in Syria included (includes) Su-35S, Su-27SM, Su-30SM fighter jets, Su-24 bomber jets, Su-34 fighter-bombers, Su-25SM attack aircraft, and, according to some reports, the latest Russian Su-57 fighters.