Germany preparing for likely air warfare

BERLIN, Jan. 29 (UPI) -- In apparent response to a NATO request for reconnaissance aircraft, Germany has been having its pilots engage in training for possible future combat missions.

Germany's Deutsche Welle said that German pilots in the armed forces are engaging in military training with new technology for possible fighting in Afghanistan.

The report of the new training would appear to indicate that Germany is set to approve NATO's request for German reconnaissance aircraft in Afghanistan.

German pilots said they were recently informed by their superiors to learn the advanced "Reccelite" technology as soon as possible for use in military actions.

Members of the Germany's Social Democratic Party openly opposed the move, saying that such military endeavors would only escalate the European nation's involvement in Afghanistan.

"We have to do everything to prevent being pulled into an escalating combat situation, SPD spokesman Gert Weisskirchen said.

Deutsche Welle said that an official announcement regarding NATO's request will be made on Wednesday.