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ConflictFrench MoD: Two Rafales scramble to intercept two Russian Su-30s near NATO borders
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This operational update from the French Ministry of Defence covers the period from July 2 to July 9, 2026, focusing on NATO's Eastern flank. In Estonia, French infantry soldiers deployed within a NATO multinational battalion conducted trench combat training to prepare new units following a rotation. In Lithuania, the French Rafale detachment assigned to NATO's Baltic Air Policing mission participated in reconnaissance and training maneuvers with Romanian F-16s, Polish MiG-29s, and a Lithuanian helicopter, demonstrating interoperability. On July 8, two Rafales from Siauliai Air Base scrambled on alert to intercept two Russian Su-30 aircraft flying near NATO borders, contributing to the integrity of Alliance airspace.
Source report
Author: adrien.gedin Category: Operations
EUROPE
Operational Update in the European Zone
Eastern Flank of the Alliance: Permanent Operational Posture
Estonia
French soldiers from the infantry company deployed within the NATO multinational battalion conducted a trench combat training sequence. Following the rotation, this training aimed to prepare the new units and acclimate them to this type of environment.
Lithuania
The French Rafale detachment dedicated to the NATO air policing mission participated in several reconnaissance and training maneuvers with various partners, including Romanian F-16s, Polish MiG-29s, and a Lithuanian helicopter. These activities illustrate the interoperability of our assets with those of our partners.
On July 8, two Rafales from the Siauliai air base took off on alert to intercept two Su-30s as they were flying near the borders of the Alliance. They thus contributed to the integrity of NATO airspace.
Source
Ministère des Armées et des Anciens combattantsWestern
Part of this Story
French Forces Intercept Russian Jets, Train in NATO Eastern Flank Operations