UK deploys RAF jets to Poland after Russian drone incursion

The UK will deploy Royal Air Force Typhoon jets to Poland in response to Russian drone incursions, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Monday.

The aircraft will join NATO’s Eastern Sentry mission, patrolling alongside Danish, French and German jets to reinforce the alliance’s eastern flank. A Voyager refuelling plane from RAF Brize Norton will support the deployment.

Starmer described Russia’s actions as an “unprecedented violation” of NATO airspace and a direct threat to European security. He said the UK’s deployment was vital to deter further aggression and protect NATO allies. Defence Secretary John Healey added that Britain’s commitment to the mission sends a clear message to Moscow.

The move follows last week’s drone incursions over Poland, which saw NATO and Polish forces shoot down multiple drones, and a separate breach over Romanian airspace. Poland’s Prime Minister Donald Tusk called the incidents “the closest we have been to open conflict since World War Two.”

The Foreign Office summoned Russia’s ambassador in London, condemning the violations as “utterly unacceptable.” NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte confirmed the Eastern Sentry operation aims to strengthen defences along NATO’s eastern borders amid heightened Russian activity.

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