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NATO scrambles jet in first Eastern Sentry response to defend Alliance

NATO Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE)

Sep 15 2025

Mons, Belgium -- In response to another potential threat from Russian drones, NATO scrambled its first jet to defend its airspace under Eastern Sentry, a new activity to further strengthen its air defences to shield and protect all Allies, less than a day after it was announced.

The French Rafale fighter jet, one of three to recently arrive in Poland, and a Polish helicopter responded, September 13.

"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 announced, September 14, no airspace violations had occurred. However, numerous Russian drones did violate Poland's airspace, September 10, which NATO responded quickly and decisively towards. That incident along with multiple other airspace violations elsewhere in the Alliance prompted Eastern Sentry.

In a separate incident, also September 13, Romania intercepted a Russian drone that entered its airspace, the Romanian Ministry of National Defence announced. Meanwhile, the Alliance continues to strengthen its air defences under Eastern Sentry.

Four German Eurofighters stand ready to respond at an airbase in the northeast of that country and three helicopters from Czechia arrived in Poland, September 14. Denmark will contribute fighter jets and an anti-air warfare frigate, and Spain and the United Kingdom will announce their support soon. Italy and Sweden have also signaled they will aid.

"I commend Allies for providing these additional capabilities," said Grynkewich.

The Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is the military headquarters of ACO.

For SHAPE's news release on Eastern Sentry, visit our latest news release.

For more information, visit www.nato.int or https://shape.nato.int/.

For imagery of the Rafale's first flight, visit the French announcement on X.

Story by SHAPE Public Affairs Office