North Korea Threatens US

According to a BBC news article, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) accused the United States of flying "aerial espionage missions" over its territorial waters on June 6, 8, and 10 with a USAF RC-135 aircraft. North Korea suggested it would shoot down US spy planes if these flights continue.

The North Koreans have a certain credibility when they make this threat. In 1969 they shot down a US Navy EC-121 off the North Korean east coast, killing all 31 crew members.

The Humble Patriot knows some Air Force guys who fly and operate the RC-135 Rivet Joint. For a country the size of North Korea, they can collect all the intel we need by flying over international waters. With the capabilities of the Rivet Joint there is no need to invade North Korea's airspace. I am certain the US will continue flying these missions, as the signals intelligence this aircraft gathers is vital to our operations in South Korea.

Link: Background on 1969 shootdown of an EC-121 by North Korea.