British Royal Air Force (RAF) fighter jets were sent out twice last week to confront Russian aircraft flying near NATO-controlled airspace in the Baltic Sea. The interceptions took place over Eastern Europe as part of the UK’s defense effort to support NATO allies during a time of rising global security concerns. The first incident happened on Tuesday and the second on Thursday. Both responses involved Typhoon fighter jets stationed in Poland.

Operation Chessman Begins with Intercepts Over the Baltic

On Tuesday, two RAF Typhoons took off from Malbork Airbase in Poland to meet a Russian Il-20M surveillance plane. This aircraft, also known as the “Coot-A”, was flying close to NATO airspace. Then on Thursday, another team of RAF jets responded to an unidentified aircraft that had taken off from the Russian region of Kaliningrad.

These missions were the first official actions under the UK’s new deployment called Operation Chessman. This operation includes six Typhoon jets and almost 200 personnel from the 140 Expeditionary Air Wing. The goal is to increase air patrols and reinforce NATO’s eastern front.

Sweden Joins Forces With UK in NATO Air Policing

For the first time since joining NATO in 2024, Sweden has contributed fighter jets to an allied mission. Swedish Gripen aircraft flew joint patrols with the RAF as part of the air policing operation over the Baltic region.

UK Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard confirmed the collaboration. “We’re working closely with Sweden to secure NATO airspace and support our collective defense,” he said.

This cooperation is viewed as a major step in strengthening NATO’s northern air defenses and reflects the alliance’s growing unity.

Stronger NATO Air Security Measures in 2025

These recent interceptions happened shortly after UK Defence Secretary John Healey co-chaired a high-level defense meeting in Brussels. During that summit, more than 50 countries pledged £21 billion in military support for Ukraine.

The UK continues to provide strong support for NATO air policing:

• In April 2024, six Typhoons were sent to Romania to help secure NATO’s eastern flank.
• In August 2024, four RAF F-35B stealth fighters were deployed to Iceland to patrol the northern airspace.
• Quick-response units at RAF Brize Norton, RAF Lossiemouth, and RAF Coningsby stay on alert 24/7, prepared to launch at any sign of threat.

These deployments are part of the UK’s ongoing commitment to NATO’s mission to protect member states against airspace violations or threats.

Russian Aircraft Pressure Continues in Eastern Europe

The presence of Russian planes near NATO borders is not new, but such incidents are becoming more frequent. The UK and its allies are responding quickly to prevent escalation. According to defense analysts, Russian surveillance flights aim to test NATO response times and gather intelligence.

NATO’s air policing missions are designed to prevent unauthorized or dangerous activity in European airspace. All actions follow international laws and are meant to maintain peace and safety in the skies.

The RAF’s fast reaction last week is a clear signal that the UK remains fully engaged in protecting NATO territories. With added support from Sweden and new funding pledges for Ukraine, the alliance is showing its strength through unity.