RAF fast jets have taken to the skies as part of NATO’s mission to defend Europe, less than 24 hours after Russian forces entered Ukraine.

These aircraft are part of pre-planned Enhanced Vigilance Activity, which is a NATO led Operation initiated due to the unfolding events in Ukraine.  This activity providing air support ready to defend the region and is a robust response to Russian aggression, contributing to the security of Europe.

The RAF’s contribution is in the form of additional Typhoon FGR4 aircraft, operating from RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire and RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus. The Typhoons, armed with state-of-the-art Air-to-Air missiles and a full suite of defensive aids, are patrolling NATO airspace over Poland and Romania, once more demonstrating the UK’s unwavering commitment to the NATO Alliance.

The Typhoons are supported by RAF Voyager Air-to-air refuelling aircraft from RAF Brize Norton, who offer additional fuel for the fighters so enabling greater range and endurance showing the reach of UK air power to support NATO’s defence mission.

UK MoD, Read more..