Typhoon fighter jets from the Royal Air Force (RAF) arrived this week at Malbork Air Base in Poland as part of Operation Chessman, a new phase of NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission.
The initiative aims to strengthen the Alliance’s collective defense on its eastern flank amid rising tensions with Russia.
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The aircraft, from No. II (Army Cooperation) Squadron based at RAF Lossiemouth, are being led by the 140 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW), which is responsible for coordinating the mission in the allied country.
“To defend and deter”
According to Wing Commander Christopher Jacob, leader of 140 EAW, the arrival of the jets represents a “proud moment” for his team and symbolizes the strategic unity of the allies.
“It is a privilege to be in Poland, a country with which the UK shares a long and distinguished history of friendship and cooperation, even predating the formation of NATO,” Jacob said.
He added that the mission reinforces the UK’s commitment to deterrence and the protection of NATO airspace, particularly in regions with limited native air defense resources.
“We are here to defend and deter, ready to respond to any threat while strengthening interoperability, trust, and collaboration with our allies.”
Reinforced vigilance in Eastern Europe
The mission in Poland is part of NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing program, established in 2014 following Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Since then, allied nations have taken turns deploying troops and aircraft to member states located closest to Russia and Belarus.
During their stay, RAF Typhoons are expected to carry out regular air patrols and quick reaction alert (QRA) missions alongside Polish air assets and other NATO partners.
The Royal Air Force emphasized that the mission demonstrates the UK’s operational readiness and NATO’s continued air policing adaptability in the face of emerging threats.
Source and images: RAF / Instagram @royalairforceuk. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
