NATO's air policing: Typhoons intercept Russian aircraft
"The first combat mission of EF-2000 fighters stationed in Malbork as part of air policing" is the update from 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 defense strategy. Air policing is a peace operation aimed at protecting the airspace integrity of the alliance member states.
Throughout the mission, continuous readiness (i.e., 24/7, 365 days a year) of the fighters and crews is maintained. They must be prepared for a quick reaction in the event of a potential violation of NATO countries' airspace.
Allied fighters in Malbork
In Malbork, Swedish JAS 39 Gripen fighters, among others, appeared. These single-seat aircraft have a distinctive canard configuration and are powered by a Volvo RM12 engine, which allows the fighter to reach speeds of approximately 1,491 mph. They are adapted to take off from short runways, including sections of roads at airfields.
Apart from the Swedish Gripens, Typhoons (EF-2000) also arrived in Malbork. According to the General Command of the Armed Forces, these aircraft 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 being introduced into service in 2003, the aircraft has undergone numerous upgrades. This fighter, equipped with two engines, can reach a maximum speed exceeding 1,491 mph. Thanks to its aerodynamic canard layout and fly-by-wire control system, the Eurofighter is among the most agile fourth-generation aircraft. It features 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 (such as 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 caliber of 27 mm.
