UK fighter jets to join NATO operation in Poland

UK fighter jets will join NATO air defence missions over Poland to counter aerial threats from Russia, including drones.

Royal Air Force Typhoons will join allied forces, including from Denmark, France, and Germany as part of NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission.

The announcement comes after Russian drones were intercepted in Polish airspace and later in Romanian airspace as well.

The Typhoons will operate out of RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire and are expected to start flying missions over Poland in the coming days. They will be supported by RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft from RAF Brize Norton.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "Russia’s reckless behaviour is a direct threat to European security and a violation of international law, which is why the UK will support NATO’s efforts to bolster its eastern flank through Eastern Sentry.

"These aircraft are not just a show of strength, they are vital in deterring aggression, securing NATO airspace, and protecting our national security and that of our allies.

"We will continue to stand firm in our support for Ukraine and ramp up the pressure on Putin until there is a just and lasting peace."

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said: "Russia’s actions are reckless, dangerous, and unprecedented. They only serve to strengthen the unity of NATO. Just as we stand with Ukraine, we will stand with our Polish NATO allies in the face of Russian aggression.

"The UK is fully committed to playing its part in Eastern Sentry, increasing our military presence on NATO’s eastern flank even further.

"Our advanced Typhoon fighter jets will help deter Russian aggression and, where needed, defend NATO’s airspace, making Britain secure at home and strong abroad, the foundation of our Plan for Change."