“The response was fast, and the alert was over quickly,” said U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe. “The limited use of assets was correct and calibrated to the potential threat perceived, which speaks to the utility of Eastern Sentry.”
Poland’s operational command confirmed on 14 September that no airspace violations had occurred in this instance. However, it noted that Russian drones had violated Poland’s airspace on 10 September, prompting a rapid NATO response and contributing to the launch of Eastern Sentry.
On the same day as the Rafale’s scramble, Romania intercepted a Russian drone that entered its airspace, according to the Romanian Ministry of National Defence. The Alliance stated it is continuing to strengthen its air defences through Eastern Sentry.
Four German Eurofighters are now on standby at an airbase in the northeast of Germany, while three helicopters from Czechia arrived in Poland on 14 September. Denmark will contribute fighter jets and an anti-air warfare frigate, with Spain and the United Kingdom expected to announce their support soon, while Italy and Sweden have also signalled their intent to assist.
“I commend Allies for providing these additional capabilities,” said Grynkewich. The Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), NATO’s military headquarters of Allied Command Operations, continues to coordinate the activity.
Source: SHAPE.
