NATO has launched “Eastern Sentry,” a military activity to bolster the Alliance’s posture along its eastern flank after Russian drones violated Polish airspace on Sept. 10, according to a NATO statement and a joint press conference by Secretary General Mark Rutte and Supreme Allied Commander Europe Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich.
Eastern Sentry will begin in the coming days and involve a range of Allied assets using both traditional capabilities and novel technologies, including elements to address drone threats, according to the statement. “Eastern Sentry will add flexibility and strength to our posture,” Rutte said, as quoted in the statement, which also credited Gen. Grynkewich’s response to the Sept. 10 incursions and noted Admiral Pierre Vandier’s role in advancing innovative solutions.
Allies met at the North Atlantic Council on Sept. 10 following Poland’s request for Article 4 consultations, according to the statement. Rutte described the incident as “the largest concentration of violations of NATO airspace” and said Russia’s “recklessness” along the eastern flank is increasing in frequency, according to the press-conference transcript.
According to the statement, Rutte underlined that NATO’s primary mission is to defend all Allies and deter aggression. He mentioned that forward land forces are currently stationed in eight nations and have plans to scale up if necessary. He also mentioned that Allies are working every day to fortify air defenses and safeguard vital underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea.
More information about Eastern Sentry, see the news release from NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE).
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