Protecting High-Value Prisoners: Why Countries Are Not Opening Fire on Skydiving Pilots
Skydiving pilots play a special role in air combat. They not only represent an important resource for one's own side, but can also become valuable prisoners of the enemy. Historically, many countries have faced a key question in air combat: Should skydiving pilots be attacked? In the end, most countries chose a clear answer: do not attack.
One of the reasons lies in a well-known regulation of the Geneva Military Academy - the Draft Rules of Air Warfare. First published in 1923, Article 29 of the draft states that an aircraft pilot may not be attacked during a parachute dive when he escapes due to incapacitation. This provision has gradually been accepted by all countries and has become an important norm for international air warfare conduct.
In addition, militaries of various countries also have a special attitude of respect and protection for skydiving pilots. Although on the battlefield, pilots are key targets for both sides to fight for, pilots who parachute on fighters have undoubtedly given up on combat. For these pilots, who have withdrawn from combat, the attack is not only contrary to the laws of war, but also to the ethics of war.
More practically, attacking skydiving pilots is not the best option in combat. The value of a skydiving pilot far exceeds his skills as a pilot. Skydiving pilots may have highly classified information such as tactics, equipment, and even state secrets. If these pilots can be captured and successfully countered, there is tremendous strategic value. This is why if an enemy parachuting pilot falls into our defense zone, it is basically equivalent to sending a high-value prisoner for nothing. The counteraction and use of these high-value prisoners may bring us unexpected tactical and strategic advantages.
Therefore, whether it is legal, moral, or strategic interests, it is wiser not to attack skydiving pilots. In World War II and subsequent air battles, this rule was largely observed by all countries.
However, this rule is not absolute. In certain special circumstances, such as pilots who are believed to have participated in hostilities or are mistaken for enemy pilots, attacks on pilots may be justified. But even in this case, it is necessary to abide by the international laws of war and the international rules of war. This is not only respect for human rights, but also the maintenance of human civilization.
In general, not attacking parachuting pilots reflects not only respect for life, but also consideration of strategic interests and observance of the rules of war. The practice and observance of this rule is undoubtedly of great significance to stabilizing the international air combat order and promoting international peace and cooperation.
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