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The United States, United Kingdom, and NATO allies conducted a coordinated 12-hour aerial surveillance mission along Russia’s border in response to recent Russian incursions into NATO airspace.

Some shit you should know before you dig in: If you’re unaware, last month there were multiple airspace incursions into NATO and EU territory. In Poland, NATO fighter jets were scrambled on September 10 after 19 Russian drones breached its airspace. This resulted in NATO aircraft shooting down some of the drones. In Estonia, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated national airspace for 12 minutes. Despite mounting evidence and international concern, Russia has denied any intentional involvement, dismissing the incidents as either coincidental or falsely attributed, and condemning NATO’s reactions as “reckless” and “irresponsible.”

What’s going on now: In a notable development, the US, UK, and NATO confirmed that two of the Royal Air Force’smost advanced aircraft (an RC-135 Rivet Joint electronic surveillance plane and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft) participated in a 12-hour intelligence-gathering mission on October 9, flying from the Arctic region along NATO’s eastern flank, past Belarus and Ukraine, and near Russia’s western border. The aircraft were supported mid-air by a US Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refuelling Wing, which extended their operational range, enabling the patrol to cover nearly 10,000 miles without landing.

The RC-135 aircraft, known for its ability to intercept and analyze electromagnetic signals, operated alongside the P-8A Poseidon, which is equipped for anti-submarine warfare and maritime threat detection. The two aircraft provided real-time surveillance and electronic intelligence, working in concert with NATO command structures across Europe.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey described the mission as a “substantial joint mission with our US and NATO allies,” stressing its dual purpose of deterrence and intelligence. “Not only does this provide valuable intelligence to boost the operational awareness of our Armed Forces, but sends a powerful message of NATO unity to Putin and our adversaries,” Healey said. He praised the UK personnel involved, adding, “Their tireless work makes Britain safer, secure, and strong abroad.”

RAF Group Captain Matthew D’Aubyn echoed the sentiment, stating, “Missions like this demonstrate NATO’s unity and readiness to defend its members against any aggression… Our ability to operate seamlessly with USAF assets underscores the strength of the NATO alliance.”