In NATO formation, Polish and Dutch fighter jets took off to eliminate potential threats to allied territory. Multiple Russian drones had entered Polish airspace. NATO acted quickly and decisively. This was done by deploying Polish and Dutch fighter jets to engage these drones. Several were subsequently shot down.
According to Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans, the Russian threat is not limited to Ukraine, but poses a broader threat to Europe. “Russia is taking more risks, which increases the threat to NATO territory. The Netherlands can play an important role in defending that territory within NATO, as was demonstrated last night with the deployment of our F-35s. I am proud of the adequate and professional response of our pilots.”
However, the Netherlands and Poland were not the only countries to respond. German Patriot missile systems in Poland were put on alert. Additionally, an Italian air warning aircraft and a plane from the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) fleet of the alliance were deployed to refuel the fighter jets in the air.
NATO demonstrates with this deployment the capacity and determination to defend allied territory.
Dutch F-35s in Poland
The Netherlands has been providing F-35 aircraft since September 1 to help protect NATO treaty territory. This is not the first time Dutch F-35s have taken off in Poland to counter Russian projectiles threatening NATO treaty territory. However, it is the first time the Netherlands has deployed weapons.