RAF Typhoons deploy to Romania for NATO air policing

RAF Typhoons are deploying for a NATO air policing mission in Romania for a fourth year, as Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues to destabilise European security.

Four jets from 3 (Fighter) Squadron will help secure the Black Sea region, working from Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base.

The aircraft are normally based at RAF Coningsby, and 150 RAF personnel based at RAF Wittering will support the British mission, which is named Operation Biloxi.

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Running for the fourth time since 2017, it contributes to NATO's enhanced Air Policing (eAP) mission – supporting assurance measures introduced in 2014 following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea.

Eight years on, following Russia's ongoing, full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the deployment is in addition to the wider UK contribution to NATO operations – from the Baltic to the Black Sea.  

Minister for the Armed Forces James Heappey said: "The UK remains committed to NATO and European security in the face of Russian aggression and the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

"Operation Biloxi is a long-standing NATO mission and the Royal Air Force are playing a central role in security and deterrence in Europe."

Watch: All about Op Biloxi.