Poland starts Operation Eastern Sentry in response to Russian drone incursions
Photo: Operation Eastern Sentry has been launched in Poland (Getty Images)
Poland has launched the Eastern Sentry operation, a NATO response to the incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace, according to RMF24.
The Polish Armed Forces General Staff released a video showing the landing of a French A400 transport aircraft, which delivered weapons for the Rafale fighter jets already stationed in Poland.
It is known that as part of the Eastern Sentry mission, allied forces from Denmark, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany will be deployed.
"We thank our allies for their solidarity with Poland and the decision to send additional forces: Czech Mi-171S helicopters, Danish F-16s and an air-defense frigate, French Rafale jets, German Eurofighters, as well as support from the United Kingdom and other NATO countries," the statement from the Polish Armed Forces Operational Command reads.
It is noted that this support demonstrates the unity of the Alliance, which can quickly turn into real border defense.
"Eastern Sentry is not just an initiative; it is a clear signal that NATO borders are inviolable and that the safety of our citizens remains a priority," the Operational Command added.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, emphasized that Ukraine's heroic defense is linked to the future of Europe. This is why Poland is strengthening its own defense capabilities.
"In unity there is strength, and in readiness there is victory," the Minister of National Defense said.
Background
It was previously reported that NATO is launching the Eastern Sentry operation to strengthen the defense of Europe's eastern flank in response to the incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace.
During Russia’s attack on Ukraine on the night of September 10, drones entered Poland. Aircraft weapons were used against them. This was the first time Polish aviation shot down drones that violated the country’s airspace.
Overall, authorities in Poland found the wreckage of 16 Russian drones that entered its territory during the attack. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the country’s airspace was violated at least 19 times.
