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NATO Launches ‘Sentinelle Orientale’ to Reinforce Eastern Flank After Drone Breach of Poland

The alliance will deploy flexible air and naval assets focused on counter‑drone defense in the coming days.

Overview

  • Mark Rutte and SACEUR Gen. Alexus Grynkewich announced the new operation, with deployments set to start shortly along the eastern flank.
  • Contributions include two Danish F‑16s and an air‑defense frigate, three French Rafale, four German Eurofighters, and additional support signaled by the United Kingdom.
  • NATO says its assessment of intent is ongoing, as Poland calls the episode a deliberate attack and Moscow denies responsibility.
  • Polish and Dutch aircraft downed at least three of the 19 drones that violated Polish airspace, and authorities recovered multiple Russian‑made drones or debris with no reported casualties.
  • The rollout coincides with large Russo‑Belarusian Zapad‑2025 drills near NATO borders and Article 4 consultations requested by Poland, while NATO works on more affordable counter‑drone solutions.