PHOTOS | UK Armed Forces MPs visit RAF personnel conducting NATO enhanced Air Policing in Romania

Members of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (AFPS) were hosted by RAF personnel, deployed as part of 121 Expeditionary Air Wing on Operation BILOXI, during a visit to Borcea 86 Air Base, Romania, offering a detailed insight into the UK’s contribution to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission (eAP)  and the broader Eastern Sentry.

The cross-party delegation visited the RAF personnel and Typhoon Aircraft deployed in Romania operating as part of NATO’s eAP mission, which ensures the security of Allied airspace, deters potential threats and demonstrates the Alliance’s collective commitment to defense on NATO’s eastern flank.

During the visit to the base in southeastern Romania, AFPS members were given a comprehensive overview of the operation, including its objectives, command structure and the role of Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) aircraft in responding to potential NATO airspace incursions.

The delegation toured the RAF facilities at Borcea 86 Air Base, observed the aircraft and engineering support infrastructure, and engaged directly with personnel across a range of specializations.

The visit provided a first-hand understanding of the pace, complexity and importance of the RAF’s contribution to NATO operations, as well as the professionalism and adaptability of personnel deployed on operations overseas.

The Rt Hon the Baroness Morgan of Cotes, Nicky Morgan said:

“It has been a privilege to visit RAF personnel deployed on Operation BILOXI and to see first-hand the professionalism, dedication and expertise they bring to NATO’s enhanced Air Policing mission. At a time of continued uncertainty across Europe, the UK’s contribution to NATO remains as important as ever, and our service personnel continue to demonstrate dedication and commitment whilst working alongside our Romanian allies.”

She continued:

 “We welcomed the opportunity to exchange views on defense and security with a cross-party delegation. It exemplifies NATO collaboration and cohesion.”

In addition to their visit to Borcea 86 Air Base, the AFPS delegation traveled to Bucharest where they were hosted at the Romanian Parliament. The visit included a tour of the parliamentary estate, and they met with representatives of the Romanian Parliament. Discussions focused on shared security concerns, NATO cooperation, and the evolving threat landscape across Europe.

The Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme is an established program that enables Members of Parliament and peers to gain a deeper understanding of the UK Armed Forces through structured engagement. Participants undertake visits, briefings and immersive experiences alongside service personnel, helping to strengthen awareness of defense issues within Parliament and improve informed decision-making on military matters.

NATO Air Policing is a permanent peacetime mission that aims to preserve the security of Allied skies. It is a collective task and involves the continuous presence – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – of fighter aircraft and crews, which are ready to react quickly to possible airspace violations.

NATO Air Policing is conducted within the broader NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) framework, which also includes air surveillance radars, surface-based air defense systems and ballistic missile defense systems.

The Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) is responsible for the conduct of NATO Air Policing.

Established in 1961 during the Cold War, NATO Air Policing has been an integral part of NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) for decades. On duty 24/7/365, NATO Air Policing is a constant in a rapidly changing security environment, giving NATO the capability to protect its skies in peacetime. It is a clear sign of cohesion, shared responsibility and solidarity across the Alliance.

The United Kingdom is a long-standing contributor to NATO Air Policing and regularly deploys Royal Air Force personnel and aircraft to support Allied nations.

RAF Typhoon aircraft are the UK’s primary Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) and air defense platform and are routinely used for NATO air policing duties across Europe.

The deployment to Romania demonstrates the UK’s continued commitment to NATO’s collective defense and to the security of the Euro‑Atlantic area.

RAF personnel deployed on the mission include aircrew, engineers and support staff, all of whom work alongside NATO partners to ensure aircraft are maintained, operations are conducted safely, and airspace is always protected.