The activation of Spanish air assets occurred after a wave of missile and drone attacks launched by Russia against infrastructure in Ukraine. Faced with the increased risk of incidents in neighboring countries, NATO has activated defensive reinforcement protocols in Eastern Europe, including enhanced surveillance of Polish airspace.
In this operational framework, Spanish EF-18M Hornet fighters were deployed from Lithuania to participate in air protection tasks, an action that confirms Spain’s active role in the Allied security architecture beyond its immediate borders.
Air operation in support of the defense of Poland
The operational command of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed the activation of ground and air systems after detecting Russian attack drone and strategic aviation activity linked to bombing of Ukraine.
According to the official statement, the fighter jets of the United States and Spain operated in a coordinated manner to ensure the integrity of Polish airspace. The Netherlands also contributed to allied media during the alert, which remained active for several hours.
NATO protocols enabled
Polish authorities noted that, in accordance with current NATO procedures, fighters were being mobilized on high alert and that the readiness levels of air defense and radar systems had been increased. After the alert ended, it was confirmed that no violation of national airspace had occurred.
These types of activations are part of a phased response designed to avoid cross-border incidents when Russia steps up attacks in areas near allied countries.
The role of the Vilkas aerotactic detachment
The Spanish planes belong to the Vilkas Aerotactical Detachment, deployed at Šiauliai Air Base, Lithuania. This contingent is made up of ten EF-18M fighters from the 15th Wing of the Air and Space Force.
The detachment’s main mission is Baltic Air Policing, a permanent NATO operation aimed at protecting the airspace of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, countries which do not have sufficient fighter capabilities.
Beyond routine monitoring
In addition to the usual interception and control missions, the Spanish detachment provides support for the allied operation called Eastern Sentinel, aimed at strengthening deterrence and response capabilities on the eastern flank.
The intervention in Polish airspace demonstrates the operational flexibility of the contingent and its full integration into Allied command and control schemes.
In-flight refueling and logistical support
The operation was supported by an A400M transport and refueling aircraft from the Air and Space Force, which allowed the Spanish fighters to extend their range of action by refueling in flight.
This type of logistical capabilities are essential in high alert scenarios, where staying aloft and speed of reaction make the difference in air defense.
Aircraft relief and sustained Spanish presence
The current deployment comes after the relief carried out at the end of November, when the Eurofighters of the 11th Wing were replaced by the EF-18Ms of the 15th Wing. In addition to these planes, Spain maintains a contingent of around 150 soldiers deployed.
Spanish participation in this latest activation confirms Spain’s sustained commitment to NATO’s collective security and its direct involvement in the defense of the eastern flank, in a context marked by the continuity of the war in Ukraine and Russia’s growing military pressure in the region.
About The Author
