In a strategic move to bolster NATO’s presence in Eastern Europe, Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets from II (Army Cooperation) Squadron, based at RAF Lossiemouth, have arrived at Malbork Air Base in Poland. The deployment marks the start of Operation Chessman, a key element of NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission, underscoring the UK’s unwavering commitment to regional security and collective defence within the NATO alliance.
The Typhoons landed at the 22nd Air Base in Malbork, where they will play a vital role in airspace policing operations, especially in areas where local air defence capabilities are limited. This mission, part of NATO’s ongoing strategy to deter aggression on its eastern flank, is a powerful signal of Allied solidarity and military readiness.
Wing Commander Christopher Jacob, Commanding Officer of 140 Expeditionary Air Wing (EAW), highlighted the significance of the deployment, both strategically and symbolically. “The arrival of our Typhoon aircraft here at Malbork marks a proud moment for our team as we prepare to take on this vital NATO mission,” Jacob said. “It is a privilege to be in Poland, a country with which the United Kingdom shares a long and storied history of friendship and cooperation, that predates the NATO Alliance.”
He went on to stress the mission’s dual purpose: “We are here to defend and deter, standing ready to protect against any threat, whilst reassuring our allies of the UK’s commitment to NATO and the region. Additionally, we strive to foster partnership, advance interoperability, develop trust, and reinforce collaboration and unity among our NATO member partners.”
The deployment is part of NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing programme, which was initiated in 2014 following Russia’s annexation of Crimea. The programme sees NATO member nations rotate forces to support air defence in states situated near Russia and Belarus. RAF Typhoons will conduct regular patrols and quick reaction alert duties, working alongside Polish and other NATO air assets.
This mission highlights NATO’s adaptability in ensuring the security of its members, with the UK demonstrating its operational readiness to support the Alliance’s deterrence and defence posture.
