UK fighter jets have commenced their initial NATO policing mission over Poland following recent Russian airspace violations. The jets, operating under the call signs “chaos 1-1” and “chaos 1-2,” patrolled the region near Belarusian and Russian borders. This defensive operation came in response to 19 drones being downed in the area earlier this month.
In collaboration with other NATO countries like Denmark, France, and Germany, the UK deployed RAF Typhoons for air defense over Poland. The mission, known as “Eastern Sentry,” saw the fighter jets accompanied by a Voyager air-to-air refueling aircraft. This operation was conducted after Russian drones breached Polish airspace, and three Russian jets encroached on Estonia’s airspace.
During the mission, the Voyager aircraft successfully refueled the fighter jets, equipped with advanced sensors and air-to-air missiles. The refueling process, carried out at high altitudes and speeds, was overseen by a system operator. The Voyager delivered 27.4 tonnes of fuel to the jets, emphasizing the collaborative defense efforts between the UK and Poland.
Defence Secretary John Healey praised the RAF personnel for their role in upholding shared security interests with Poland. The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth, highlighted the RAF’s commitment to NATO and its allies through operational missions like Eastern Sentry. The UK’s participation in these patrols demonstrates readiness to defend NATO airspace and deter potential aggressors.