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Aaron Stein

@aaronstein1.bsky.social
3.7K followers 275 following 455 posts

President/CEO @fpri.bsky.social; Podcast w/ blogfather @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social; Recent Substacker; Author: US War Against ISIS. Views are all my own

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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
The blogfather @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I caught up to talk our TTX in Philly, Kebab in Armenia, and how the arms race in space is faster than on earth www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1222...
armscontrolwonk.com
The Rapid Race in Space
Aaron and Jeffrey crossed paths in Philadelphia for a TTX about space nukes and escalation dynamics. The two caught up on the game, the recent news from USAF Secretary about US weapons in orbit, and what it all means for the new space race.
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
The new, enduring infrastructure built for facilities at Olenya Guba around the end of the Cold War underscores the importance placed on the seabed warfare assets housed there and indicates that by the early 1990s, GUGI had moved significant operations there.
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House of GUGI: A Historical Imagery Analysis of Olenya Guba - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The special mission submarines and Yantar belong to the Main Directorate for Deep Sea-Research (Glavnoye Upravlenie Glubokovodnikh Issledovanii), more
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
🗓️ Virtual Event | Tuesday, October 20 | 12:00 PM EDT | 18:00 CET Co-hosted with New Eastern Europe, this virtual panel will explore the past legacies, present security and political realities, and strategic future of Central Europe and the Visegrád Four at a pivotal moment in European geopolitics.
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Central Europe on the World Stage - FPRI Events
As global security dynamics shift, understanding the political trajectories and foreign policy directions of Central Europe is a vital piece of the
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
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Regalt Top Gun Maverick Cockpit
ALT: Regalt Top Gun Maverick Cockpit
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Any book about the Flying Tigers. We do things in the air on my side of the office at FPRI. Not the surface of the sea @bafriedman.bsky.social
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Sam Lair @slair.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
With GUGI in the news, I took a look at the Russian deep-sea submarine base at Olenya Guba. I pulled some beautiful, declassified satellite images. Take a look! www.fpri.org/article/2026...
fpri.org
House of GUGI: A Historical Imagery Analysis of Olenya Guba - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The special mission submarines and Yantar belong to the Main Directorate for Deep Sea-Research (Glavnoye Upravlenie Glubokovodnikh Issledovanii), more
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
🆕 FPRI Experts React | The Trump-Xi Summit. Our experts highlight different dimensions of the summit, all pointing to the same conclusion: both the United States and China were eager to convey strength, prioritizing the status of their partnership over addressing pertinent tensions between them.
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FPRI Experts React | The Trump-Xi Summit - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The much-anticipated summit meeting in Washington between American President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping masked any tensions that the two
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
If you aren’t currently a member but would like to attend this and future events, please contact our Events and Development Manager, Christine Datesman, at cdatesman@fpri.org.
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
🗓️ Member Briefing | Iran Rebuilds its Missile Arsenal In this members-only briefing, Aaron Stein and Sam Lair will discuss how FPRI's IDAC team is leveraging open-source satellite imagery to track and assess Iran's missile capabilities and stockpiles.
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Iran Rebuilds its Missile Arsenal: An Open Source Assessment - FPRI Events
In September, the Wall Street Journal reported that the Iranian regime has begun to rebuild its missile stockpiles, leveraging spare parts on hand and working
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
Check out what FPRI worked on this week!
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Weekly Insights | September 25, 2026
Russia and Ukraine’s war of endurance, Latvia’s upcoming elections, and more
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
🆕 What Stands Out in the US-Greenland-Denmark Agreement with Rebeca Pincus and @aaronstein1.bsky.social. buff.ly/V0dMDxe
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What Stands Out in the US-Greenland-Denmark Agreement - Foreign Policy Research Institute
This whole Greenland saga has elicited all sorts of commentary. Let’s step back. The United States has had a presence on Greenland and permissive basing rules
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
My man
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
In his report, Aaron Stein details how there is serious discussion in Russia about developing military weapons to disable US satellite constellations, reviving a countermeasure framework that Russia has long adopted against US space technology.
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Taking LEO Off the Board: Russian Thinking About Anti-Satellite Warfare - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The Soviet Union and Russia have invested in anti-satellite weapons to ensure that their nuclear deterrent remains credible. For both the Soviet Union and
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
FPRI hosted a wargame with participants joining from around the world. The TTX simulated nuclear escalation dynamics in space, following credible reports of Russia deploying nuclear weapons into orbit. Thank you to our participants for embodying the spirit of the game and making it a success.
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Colleagues from around the world joined us @fpri.bsky.social in Philadelphia for a TTX to study nuclear escalation dynamics in space. Thanks to @slair.bsky.social @duitsmanms.bsky.social @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and Emily Holland for support. Game report coming soon!
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Ankit Panda @nktpnd.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Wrote up a short Substack on my way back from Philadelphia, where I had a good time in a space-nuclear table-top today hosted by @aaronstein1.bsky.social, @slair.bsky.social, and team. On salvage fuzes! panda.substack.com/p/salvage-fu...
panda.substack.com
Salvage Fuzing and Co-Orbital Nuclear Weapons
Why destroying a possible Russian co-orbital nuclear anti-satellite weapon probably isn’t a good idea.
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Take a look at the second issue of the #OrbisJournal, focusing on the second nuclear century. The authors each explore a critical element of the nuclear domain shaping the international system. Special thanks to Rachel Whitlark for all her hard work spearheading this issue. buff.ly/iso1dit
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
My latest report for @fpri.bsky.social with colleagues @slair.bsky.social and @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
In his latest analysis piece, @duitsmanms.bsky.social explains how a coming US-Saudi Arabia nuclear agreement poses significant proliferation risks, as it allows Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium, in exchange for US nuclear reactors—which the US is not in a position to deliver. Read more below.
fpri.org
The US-Saudi Nuclear Deal: Abandoning the Gold Standard - Foreign Policy Research Institute
Donald Trump is famous for his love of gold. His agreement with Saudi Arabia, however, has undermined the so-called “Gold Standard” for nuclear
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
The proclamation of the Zeitenwende marked a clear step forward, but key questions remain regarding how that vision translates into long-term policy and proactive leadership on NATO’s Eastern Flank.
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
🗓️ In-Person Event | Thursday, September 17 | 5:00 - 6:30 PM In the wake of shifting geopolitical realities, the debate surrounding Germany’s military readiness, industrial capability, and strategic leadership has taken center stage. More details below ⬇️
fpri.org
Zeitenwende in Action: Germany’s Future Role in NATO Security - FPRI Events
For decades, Germany’s position in NATO was defined by a delicate balance: serving as a reliable alliance partner while exercising diplomatic restraint and
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 01/09/2026
⏰️ Tuesday, September 8 | 5:00 PM Aaron Stein and Sam Lair will host an in-person discussion on the cost of proposed satellite constellations under the Golden Dome Program—an enduring source of debate around space-based interceptors—and their potential consequences. Register here: buff.ly/Wd14UmG.
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Nothing New Under the Golden Dome - FPRI Events
Aaron Stein and Sam Lair will discuss their forthcoming FPRI report on the cost and consequences of proposed space-based interceptor satellite constellations
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Frank Kuhn @frankkuhn.bsky.social · 29/08/2026
When you’re out cycling and then get a gentle reminder to check out the latest issue of @fpri.bsky.social Orbis. 😅
A cyclist on the road A street sign giving directions to the town „Orbis“
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Sam Lair @slair.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
I return to the Arms Control Wonk Podcast to talk Golden Dome and SBIs with @aaronstein1.bsky.social and @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social Come for our explanations of math, stay to hear what everyone's favorite SBI countermeasure is! www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1222...
armscontrolwonk.com
Calculating the Cost of Golden Dome
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
The blogfather @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I sat down with @fpri.bsky.social fellow @slair.bsky.social to discuss our joint research on the actual cost of space based interceptors and this layer of Golden Dome. We thank New-Land Foundation for support. www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1222...
armscontrolwonk.com
Calculating the Cost of Golden Dome
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Nate Schenkkan @nateschenkkan.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
I am hiring a Research Associate to join my team at Scholars at Risk: apply.interfolio.com/191007. Great way to get started in international human rights work, particularly if you have an interest in academic freedom
apply.interfolio.com
Apply - Interfolio {{$ctrl.$state.data.pageTitle}} - Apply - Interfolio
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
The report by @aaronstein1.bsky.social examines Soviet and now Russian thinking about war in space, the investments made to hold at risk US assets in orbit, and how US private sector advancements are pushing the Russians to consider deploying nuclear weapons in space. buff.ly/N45n4cy
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Taking LEO Off the Board: Russian Thinking About Anti-Satellite Warfare - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The Soviet Union and Russia have invested in anti-satellite weapons to ensure that their nuclear deterrent remains credible. For both the Soviet Union and
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Ankit Panda @nktpnd.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
🚨 Job Alert: We’re hiring for a research assistant at @carnegienpp.bsky.social. Come work with me and the rest of the team. Details below; apply by the 18th of August: carnegieendowment.applicantpro.com/jobs/4169113
carnegieendowment.applicantpro.com
Research Assistant, Nuclear Policy Program - Washington, DC
Research Assistant Nuclear Policy Program The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a renowned international affairs institution, seeks a full-time research assistant to support its Washington, ...
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 08/08/2026
The quest to leverage space for warfighting has continued. How has Russia adapted its strategy to the domain, and what does it mean for US defense planning and investment? Click the link below to find out more from @aaronstein1.bsky.social.
fpri.org
Taking LEO Off the Board: Russian Thinking About Anti-Satellite Warfare - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The Soviet Union and Russia have invested in anti-satellite weapons to ensure that their nuclear deterrent remains credible. For both the Soviet Union and
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
Really great read from @fpri.bsky.social @slair.bsky.social @duitsmanms.bsky.social
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
More jobs @fpri.bsky.social! Our Eurasia and Asia teams are looking to expand and hire a part-time RA/EA to support our awesome work. Apply to join our growing team. www.fpri.org/about/employ...
fpri.org
Career Opportunities - FPRI
FPRI is committed to considering a broad array of candidates, including those with diverse work experience and backgrounds. All qualified applicants will
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
My colleague @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I discussed on our podcast the history of our now decade-and-half old show, his future, my future, and our major plans for 2027 and beyond www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1222...
armscontrolwonk.com
From Past to Future
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
Happy National Intern Day!🎉 Thank you to all of our summer and 2026 interns for supporting our fellows and staff. Read more about the internship program on our website. buff.ly/eFf8GoJ
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
Russian nuclear-armed submarines have long operated under the protection of thick Arctic sea ice, but as it melts away, Carl Parkin breaks down the challenges they face.
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A Crown Jewel in Peril: Russia’s Arctic Aggression Masks Nuclear Vulnerability - Foreign Policy Research Institute
Russia sees opportunity in the Arctic. For centuries, ever-present sea ice has made the region hostile to trade or military exploitation. But as the ice
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Jeffrey Lewis @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social · 25/07/2026
First our OSINT team, now LeBron. It’s been a good week for Philly. @fpri.bsky.social
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 24/07/2026
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High Five Lets Go
ALT: High Five Lets Go
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Dr Emma Salisbury @salisbot.bsky.social · 24/07/2026
It's my first anniversary at @fpri.bsky.social today! I'm enormously grateful to the whole team for being so consistently supportive and encouraging - and particularly to @aaronstein1.bsky.social for giving me the opportunity to be a big nerd. You guys are the best!
static.klipy.com
Top Gun Maverick Iceman Bro Hug
ALT: Top Gun Maverick Iceman Bro Hug
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Jeffrey Lewis @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
Some news! As many of you know, I've been a Distinguished Research Fellow at @fpri.bsky.social consulting with @aaronstein1.bsky.social on space and missile defense. Today it gets much better: the whole freaking open-source research team is joining FPRI full time. (1/4)
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
For those on the West Coast. We have big news @fpri.bsky.social 👇
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
Over on the podcast @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I have talked about these issues for over a decade (really, its been 14 years). The team coming to @fpri.bsky.social was an obvious next step. We have big plans. Let's rock. Check out the press release here: www.fpri.org/news/2026/07...
fpri.org
FPRI Launches New Initiative for Deterrence and Arms Control Led by Jeffrey Lewis - Foreign Policy Research Institute
The Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI) today announced the launch of the Initiative for Deterrence and Arms Control, led by Dr. Jeffrey Lewis, a
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
We think this work is more important than ever. Nations are rearming and for the first time in decades, the world is poised for an expansion of deployed nuclear weapons in the US and Russia. It is more important than ever to be innovative and think about how to analyze this new arms race
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
@slair.bsky.social, @duitsmanms.bsky.social, John Ford & Seth Hosford will be full-time Fellows @fpri.bsky.social. The team is going to be doing the same awesome work: Using satellites, software, and open sources to shed light on the spread of nuclear weapons and missiles around the world
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
We have big news at @fpri.bsky.social! For almost a year now @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I have been collaborating on a series of projects about deterrence, space, and missile defense. Last week, we made it official. Jeffrey's all-star team is starting full time at FPRI.
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
My @fpri.bsky.social research colleague @armscontrolwonk.bsky.social and I break down why we don’t think the test was that big of a deal. Listen here: www.armscontrolwonk.com/archive/1222... (Arms Control Wonk)
armscontrolwonk.com
JL-3, You know me.
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
China just conducted a rare open-ocean test of its JL-3 submarine-launched ballistic missile. Why does that matter? What does it tell us about China’s sea-based nuclear deterrent, targeting, and strategic signaling?
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
If you missed our virtual book talk, watch the discussion on our YouTube channel. The authors of "Moscow's Mercenaries" detailed the Wagner Group's functions, the intense political drama surrounding the Group and the death of its founder, Yevgeny Prigozhin, and more.
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Moscow’s Mercenaries: The Rise and Fall of the Wagner Group
FPRI’s Eurasia Program Director Dr. Emily Holland hosted a book talk marking the release of Moscow’s Mercenaries: The Rise and Fall of the Wagner Group with authors Christopher M. Faulkner, Raphael…
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Sam Lair @slair.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
Such a blast a write this with Aaron and to feature in Aviation Week!! Really thrilled!
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
my @fpri.bsky.social colleague @slair.bsky.social and I wrote about how Golden Dome may hasten the burgeoning nuclear arms race in space for @aviationweek.bsky.social aviationweek.com/space/satell...
aviationweek.com
Opinion: Golden Dome Revives Nuclear Anti-Satellite Weapons Concerns | Aviation Week
Proliferating space constellations could suffer the same fate as the Telstar 1 satellite in 1962.
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Foreign Policy Research Institute @fpri.bsky.social · 20/07/2026
⏰️ Virtual Event Reminder | Tomorrow, July 21 | FPRI will host a book talk centering on why the #WagnerGroup is so important to the Kremlin, how Wagner expanded across multiple theaters, and updates on the Group's activities.
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Moscow’s Mercenaries: The Rise and Fall of the Wagner Group - FPRI Events
Join FPRI’s Eurasia Program for a book talk hosted by Program Director Dr. Emily Holland marking the release of Moscow’s Mercenaries: The Rise and Fall of the
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Aaron Stein @aaronstein1.bsky.social · 18/07/2026
I’ve followed the air war at a very granular level. It is still a miracle/testament to professionalism that a jet hasn’t been hit on the ground at MSAB
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