NATO's quick response: British Typhoons intercept Russian aircraft
"The first combat mission of EF-2000 fighters stationed in Malbork as part of air policing" – we read on the profile of the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces on X. During these operations, the units intercepted a Russian Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft.
As part of the air policing mission, air forces from Sweden, the United Kingdom, and Portugal arrived in Poland. The aircraft stationed in Malbork play a key role in NATO's defence strategy. Air policing is a peace operation aimed at protecting the airspace integrity of the alliance member states.
Throughout its course, continuous (i.e., 24/7, 365 days a year) readiness of fighters and crews is maintained. They should be prepared for a quick reaction should there be a potential violation of NATO countries' airspace.
Allied fighters in Malbork
In Malbork, among others, Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters appeared, which are single-seat aircraft with a distinctive canard configuration. It is powered by a Volvo RM12 engine, propelling the fighter to a speed of approximately 2,400 km/h (1,491 mph). It is adapted to take off from short runways, including road segments of airfields.
Apart from the Swedish Gripens, Typhoons (EF-2000) also flew to Malbork. It is these aircraft – as stated in the communication from the General Command of the Armed Forces – that have now completed their first combat mission.
British Typhoons in Poland
The Eurofighter Typhoon is the result of collaboration between four countries: Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain. Its concept originated during the Cold War, but since introduction into service in 2003, the aircraft has undergone numerous upgrades. This fighter, equipped with two engines, can reach a maximum speed exceeding 2,400 km/h (1,491 mph). Thanks to the aerodynamic canard layout and fly-by-wire control system, the Eurofighter is among the most agile fourth-generation aircraft. It has advanced avionics and a Captor-M radar, and in newer versions, the Captor-E AESA, allowing effective combat at both short and long distances.
The Eurofighter Typhoon boasts a rich arsenal of weapons, including both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. This fighter is capable of carrying short-range missiles (including IRIS-T and AIM-9X Sidewinder), as well as medium and long-range missiles (AIM-120 AMRAAM and Meteor). For destroying ground targets, the Eurofighter uses Paveway IV guided bombs, Storm Shadow missiles, and Brimstone rockets. A key element of this fighter's armament is the Mauser BK-27 cannon with a calibre of 27 mm.
