In the TV24 program "Current Affairs on Combat Operations in Ukraine," Mareks Matisons, a representative of the digital communications professionals community "Digicomnet"/"DCN Global," indicated that such previously unseen activity may indicate either the preparation for some operation or intelligence activities. Matisons reported that several hours before the broadcast, large aerial tankers took off from air bases in France and Italy, heading towards the Black Sea area. Although this zone is located not far from the combat zone, a specific part of the sea remains relatively safe for flights. The first signal about what is happening, according to Matisons, was given by a map created by Italian SIGINT researchers. It showed previously unseen activity of European forces and NATO forces concentrating intelligence resources over the sea. He explained that SIGINT aircraft are capable of conducting reconnaissance of targets within a radius of approximately 250–300 kilometers around them. This allows for gathering information about what is happening near Crimea and in other territories where combat operations may currently intensify. Matisons suggested that such activity could mean the conduct of some operation or preparation for it. Additionally, about an hour before the broadcast, there were reports that in the same area, alongside tankers and SIGINT aircraft, fighter jets also appeared. This, according to Matisons, already indicates the actual conduct of combat operations. At the same time, there is a risk that Russia may attempt to create a threat to these aircraft. Matisons emphasized that this case is special also because it does not involve the resources of American reconnaissance aircraft and tankers. Thus, one can speak of the activity of European forces, which may be either exercises or an intelligence operation. He clarified that the goal of intelligence activity is not always direct attack. As an example, Matisons cited the flights of Russian fighters in the Baltic Sea region. Their goal may be to provoke the activation of radars to find out where the enemy's radars and other systems are located. Such information can then be used for planning further attacks, including attempts to disrupt or disable certain infrastructure and systems. In Matisons' opinion, the activity of European forces over the Black Sea currently may have several meanings. Firstly, it is a signal to Russia that European countries are still engaged and monitoring the developments. Secondly, it is a message that Europe is capable of mobilizing and uniting its forces to support Ukraine. Thirdly, it demonstrates that European countries are sufficiently self-sufficient to carry out such activities without the involvement of the United States. However, the practical benefit for Ukraine is also important. The information obtained during reconnaissance is passed on to the Ukrainian side, helping it to better navigate the situation and gain a broader understanding of enemy troop movements. Matisons emphasized that it is not always possible to obtain a complete picture through ground reconnaissance or drone operations. In turn, large reconnaissance aircraft allow for "probing" a wider territory and, for example, searching for, identifying, and documenting the operation of missile systems. He assessed these actions by Europe as a significant event that could be one of the most important military news of the day.
