Russian SU-35 fighter aircraft close in on U.S. MQ-9 aircraft on July 5, 2023 over Syria. Additionally, one Russian pilot positioned their aircraft in front of an MQ-9 and engaged afterburner, dynamically increasing speed and air pressure, which reduced the MQ-9 operator’s ability to safely operate the aircraft. These events represent a new level of unprofessional and unsafe action by Russian air forces operating in Syria. (U.S. Air Force photo)