The UK has announced the deployment of aircraft to bolster NATO efforts in protecting offshore infrastructure in the Baltic Sea, as part of a coordinated response to growing Russian threats.
The Royal Air Force (RAF) will send P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and RC-135W Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft for the NATO-led Baltic Sentry mission.
In response, the UK activated Nordic Warden, an operation designed to monitor Russian shadow fleet activity and safeguard critical infrastructure. The Prime Minister has also held discussions with Estonian and Finnish leaders to coordinate measures against these threats.
The RC-135W Rivet Joint, a dedicated electronic surveillance aircraft, is central to the UK’s effort. According to the RAF, this aircraft is equipped to gather electronic emissions from communications, radar, and other systems, providing critical intelligence to military commanders. Specialists on board, including Weapons System Officers and Operators, monitor the electromagnetic spectrum to assess potential threats.
Used extensively in operations such as Operation Shader, the Rivet Joint has proven vital in intelligence-gathering missions. Although initially named Airseeker, it is universally referred to as the RC-135W Rivet Joint within the service. The UK currently operates three of these highly capable aircraft.
The UK Government highlighted its commitment to NATO’s response, stating, “The UK is playing a leading role in countering the growing Russian threat to offshore infrastructure in European seas.”
The deployment of the P-8 Poseidon and RC-135W Rivet Joint demonstrates this commitment, ensuring that NATO partners are supported in monitoring and deterring Russian activity.
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Lt Col Stuart Crawford is a defence analyst and former army officer. Sign up for his podcasts and newsletters at www.DefenceReview.uk
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