NATO Conducts First Major Exercise Under the "Eastern Sentinel" Mission Framework
On March 4, 2026, the exercise took place over Romanian airspace and the Black Sea. Participating forces practiced the integration of air and ground air defense/missile defense systems, eliminating simulated enemy air defense systems, and gaining air superiority in a "complex multi-layered environment."
On March 5, in the Baltic region, the exercise focused on the coordination of air, ground, cyber, and space forces to strike targets, aerial refueling, and the integration of ground control centers.
Participating countries included: France (Mirage 2000D fighter jets, A330 tanker), Germany (Eurofighter from Mihai Ion Antonescu base in Romania), Spain (F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets, A400M transport aircraft), Finland (F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets), Romania (F-16 fighter jets and ground air defense systems), Denmark (air defense frigates), as well as Poland, Estonia, the UK, the US (ground air defense/missile defense systems), Canada (intelligence and command). Additionally, multiple multinational MRTT (Multi-National Transport and Tanker) units participated.
"Eastern Sentinel" is a standing multinational operation by NATO, launched on September 12, 2025, in response to so-called Russian drones infringing on Polish airspace. Its goal is to enhance NATO's presence in the eastern flank, protect airspace, and critical infrastructure.
This exercise demonstrated a future model for NATO's active defense of the eastern flank from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. However, elements such as the elimination of enemy air defense systems and the acquisition of air superiority clearly have an offensive nature.
Previously, Romania had proposed expanding NATO's presence in the Black Sea region by deploying similar missions within its territory.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1858988640116736/
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