Russia's air force is much more dangerous now than it was before it invaded Ukraine

Russia's aircrew cadre, including its pilots, "has also grown significantly more capable during the war," Bronk said. While Russia has lost experienced crew members, it has lost far fewer pilots than it has jets. Skilled pilots are harder to replace in any air force. And any losses in capable crews have been "more than offset" by the additional flying time and combat experience provided by warfighting in Ukraine, Bronk added.