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NATO initiated Operation Eastern Sentry in response to unauthorized Russian drones penetrating Poland and Romania.

Allied nations, including the UK, France, Italy, Germany, and others, dispatch aircraft and troops under NATO's Eastern Sentry operation in response to alleged Russian drone intrusions into Poland and Romania.

Military alliance NATO initiates Operation Eastern Sentry in response to Russian unmanned aircraft...
Military alliance NATO initiates Operation Eastern Sentry in response to Russian unmanned aircraft breaching airspace in Poland and Romania.

NATO initiated Operation Eastern Sentry in response to unauthorized Russian drones penetrating Poland and Romania.

In a show of solidarity and commitment to the collective defence of its members, NATO has initiated Operation Eastern Sentry to reinforce its eastern flank. This operation, aimed at integrating air and land defences, has seen at least eight allies pledge their support so far, with more preparing to announce their participation.

The U.K. has committed to participating in the mission, with the Royal Air Force Typhoon jets being deployed to Poland. A Voyager air-to-air refueling aircraft from RAF Brize Norton will also support the deployment. France has agreed to send three Rafale fighter jets to Poland, as announced by President Emmanuel Macron on a U.S. social media company.

Denmark is contributing to the operation with fighter jets and an anti-air warfare frigate. Germany has readied four Eurofighters for the mission, while Italy is planning to participate with two Eurofighter jets. The Netherlands has been providing F-35 fighter jets to support the operation since the Russian drone incursion on the night of 9 to 10 September 2025, contributing to the protection of NATO’s eastern border alongside other allies. Dutch F-35s are expected to be stationed in Poland for the next four months.

Spain and Sweden have signaled their intention to contribute to the mission, but specific details are not provided. Romania's airspace was entered by a Russian drone during an attack on Ukraine, according to Romania's Defense Ministry. At least 19 drones crossed into Polish airspace during a recent suspected incursion, according to Poland. Russia has denied deliberate incursions into Romania's and Poland's airspace, calling them "provocations" by Ukraine.

To further bolster defences against Russian drones, Czech Mi-171S helicopters and troops have been deployed to Poland. The deployment consists of three helicopters and up to 150 soldiers for a three-month mission. The operation aims to address a wide range of threats and ensure the security of NATO's eastern border.

As Operation Eastern Sentry continues, it serves as a testament to the unity and resolve of NATO members in the face of potential threats to the collective security of its members. The operation underscores the importance of collective defence and the commitment of NATO members to upholding the principles enshrined in the NATO treaty.

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