Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets have conducted their first operational sortie under NATO’s Eastern Sentry, carrying out Vigilance Activity with NATO.
Two Typhoons from 3 (Fighter) Squadron, RAF Coningsby supported by a Voyager from 101 Squadron, patrolled NATO’s eastern flank as part of the Alliance’s ongoing measures to deter aggression and reassure our allies. Vigilance Activities are routine, defensive operations that demonstrate NATO’s ability to respond swiftly to potential threats while maintaining the security of member nations.
The sortie marks the RAF’s first operational contribution to Eastern Sentry, a mission that reinforces the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to NATO and its partners.
"Russia's reckless violation of Polish airspace with multiple drones is unacceptable. NATO's Eastern Sentry mission is to protect NATO airspace and sends a clear message: that we stand united against any threat to our allies.
RAF Typhoons, launching from RAF Coningsby and supported by Air-to-Air refuelling aircraft from RAF Brize Norton, joined our NATO partners to fortify the eastern flank. This deployment underscores the RAF's readiness and ability to project airpower swiftly and decisively.
These missions will not only strengthen NATO's air defences but also serve as a deterrent against Russian aggression, all while maintaining the RAF's commitment to defending UK skies and multiple other operational outputs at home and overseas."
Air Marshal Allan Marshall.
RAFAir & Space Commander.
Eastern Sentry involves personnel and aircraft from a number of NATO members, operating together to ensure a unified response to any potential challenge. The RAF Typhoons will conduct regular sorties, integrating seamlessly with other NATO air forces.
The deployment is part of the UK’s wider contribution to NATO’s assurance and deterrence measures, which include air policing, maritime patrols, and land force commitments across the region.
