The UK has confirmed that Royal Air Force Typhoons will deploy to Poland to support NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission in response to escalating Russian airspace violations. The move follows a major incident in which Russian drones crossed into Polish territory, the most serious breach of NATO airspace to date, as well as a separate violation of Romanian airspace.
Typhoon aircraft operating from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire will begin flying missions over Poland in the coming days. They will be supported by RAF Voyager air-to-air refuelling aircraft from RAF Brize Norton, providing extended operational reach. The RAF deployment will integrate with NATO air forces already committed to the mission, including Danish F-16s, French Rafales and German Eurofighters.
The decision was taken after the North Atlantic Council met on 10 September, where Poland invoked Article 4 of the Washington Treaty and called for consultations. Allies confirmed full solidarity with Poland and emphasised NATO’s collective commitment to defending allied territory.
Government ministers underlined that the deployment represents a concrete contribution to Euro-Atlantic security and forms part of the UK’s broader plan to raise defence spending to 2.6 per cent of GDP by 2027. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the Russian incursions as a direct threat to European security and a breach of international law. He said the deployment of British jets is essential to deterring further aggression and maintaining the integrity of NATO airspace.
Defence Secretary John Healey added that the UK’s contribution to Eastern Sentry demonstrates both solidarity with NATO partners and a willingness to increase the UK’s forward presence on the eastern flank. He said advanced Typhoon capabilities will provide effective deterrence and, if necessary, defensive action against Russian activity.
The RAF has maintained a consistent role in NATO air policing operations over recent years. Typhoons have previously deployed to Romania and Poland to support allied air defence missions, and the British Army continues to contribute to NATO’s Forward Land Forces in Estonia. Officials confirmed that the new deployment will not affect the RAF’s Quick Reaction Alert responsibilities for the defence of UK airspace.
The Typhoon’s advanced radar, sensor and weapons systems make it well suited for detecting and intercepting hostile aerial activity. Its deployment underlines NATO’s intention to strengthen collective deterrence and reassure member states on the eastern flank at a time of heightened tensions with Russia.
For UK suppliers and contractors, sustained RAF operations in Eastern Europe highlight the ongoing demand for support across fast jet maintenance, logistics, and refuelling capabilities, as well as opportunities linked to NATO’s expanding air defence posture.
