One month in, Royal Air Force Typhoons from 3 (Fighter) Squadron, deployed as part of 121 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW), have been keeping themselves busy during Operation Biloxi 2026.
RAF personnel are fully integrated into NATO command and control structures, ensuring a single, coherent approach to airspace security. Providing coordinated air policing alongside the Romanian Air Force and NATO partners, the RAF is helping to protect the Eastern flank of NATO. During the past four weeks they have scrambled twice to investigate potential airspace incursions and completed 38 sorties adding up to 47 flying hours.
The deployment forms part of the UK’s enduring commitment to NATO’s collective defence and to maintaining the security of allied airspace.
“Deploying a fighter detachment from the UK to Romania is a significant undertaking, but our people have shown exceptional professionalism throughout. From engineering to logistics and aircrew, every member of the team has played a vital role in ensuring we arrived ready to deliver NATO air policing from day one. It’s a clear demonstration of the RAF’s ability to project air power wherever it’s required.”
Wing Commander Daryl, Detachment Commander
Operation Biloxi 26
Under Operation Biloxi 26, RAF Typhoons operate in close coordination with Romanian and multinational NATO partners. Pilots, engineers, ground crews and command teams work as a single force, supporting NATO’s broader vigilance activity across the region.
“The deployment of our Typhoons to Romania demonstrates the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to NATO and the defence of allied airspace. Working alongside our Romanian partners, this mission shows the RAF’s ability to rapidly project credible air power in support of collective defence whenever and wherever required.”
Wing Commander Sonny, Officer Commanding 3 (F) Squadron
Routine by design, readiness by purpose
For those serving on Operation Biloxi 26, air policing is business as usual but they are always prepared for the unexpected. Most missions are routine: aircraft launch, complete their task, and return safely. Presence, readiness and control underpin stability and ensure NATO airspace remains secure.
"Operation Biloxi demonstrates the strength and resolve of NATO’s collective defence and the unwavering commitment of the Royal Air Force to safeguard our airspace. Our collaboration with Romanian forces and NATO partners highlights the power of unity in addressing our shared security challenges."
Air Commodore Wigglesworth, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Operations)
Through 121 EAW and 3 (F) Squadron, the RAF continues to play a central role in NATO Air Policing, operating calmly, professionally and alongside allies, reinforcing the UK’s contribution to collective defence and long-term stability across Europe.
