NATO has scrambled its fighter jets and put them on the “highest state of readiness” after Russia launched brutal strikes in Western Ukraine. Its Armed Forces Operational Command confirmed on X that allied air forces had also joined patrols over Polish airspace near the Ukrainian border.
It said: “The steps taken are aimed at ensuring safety in areas bordering the threatened areas.” Polish radar and reconnaissance systems were also placed on alert. Officials stressed their forces remained ready to respond “immediately” if necessary.
UK fighter jets have intercepted two Russian aircraft flying close to NATO airspace on April 15 as part of the UK’s contribution to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission.
Two RAF Typhoons were scrambled from Malbork Air Base in Poland to intercept a Russian Ilyushin Il-20M intelligence aircraft over the Baltic Sea.
A second scramble followed shortly after to intercept an unidentified aircraft leaving Kaliningrad airspace.
They marked were the RAF’s first intercepts under Operation CHESSMAN, supporting NATO’s Eastern Flank alongside Sweden.
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