On May 24, 2025, two Typhoon FGR4 fighter jets from the Royal Air Force, currently stationed in Poland, were scrambled to intercept a Russian reconnaissance aircraft as part of NATO’s “Enhanced Air Policing” (eAP) mission.
The jets, belonging to No. II Squadron under the 140 Expeditionary Air Wing at Malbork Air Base, responded to the approach of a Russian Il-20M (NATO reporting name: COOT-A) near Polish airspace. This particular aircraft had previously been tracked and intercepted by three different NATO fighter pairs. After briefly altering its course toward Kaliningrad, it turned southwest, prompting the deployment of the British fighters.
According to the Royal Air Force, the Il-20M did not file a flight plan, ignored communication attempts from civilian air traffic controllers, and did not use the standard acoustic signals typically employed for identification in the air. The Typhoon fighters intercepted the aircraft in international airspace over the Baltic Sea and escorted it until handover to Danish Quick Reaction Forces.
The Danish Royal Air Force pilot who took over the escort stated: “We received a scramble order to intercept the Il-20M (COOT-A) approaching NATO airspace. After interception, we were instructed to escort the aircraft to ensure the safety of all airspace users near the irresponsible vessel.” He added that the mission was conducted professionally and fully in accordance with international regulations.
A representative of the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom emphasized that the incident reflects the country’s firm commitment to collective defense: “NATO maintains constant vigilance and readiness to protect the airspace of all Alliance members around the clock, every day. This operation clearly demonstrates the UK’s dedication.”
The deployment of British forces under Operation Chessman contributes to NATO’s eAP mission. RAF personnel stationed in northern Poland work closely with Alliance forces, including Sweden—the newest NATO member—to ensure the security of the region’s airspace.
Source: Ukdefencejournal
