NATO to deploy two AWACS aircraft to Lithuania to monitor Russian military activity

This is stated on the Alliance's official website.

"Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has increased our focus on the security environment in the Baltic Sea region. Our AWACS can detect aircraft and missiles hundreds of kilometres away, making them a key early warning capability for NATO. I thank Lithuania for hosting the aircraft. This is an important contribution to our shared security," said NATO Acting Spokesperson Dylan White.

It is reported that in the coming days, AWACS will begin its reconnaissance flights over the territory of the Alliance. It is planned that the mission will last for several weeks, and about 150 military personnel will be sent to Siauliai to support the aircraft.

It is noted that in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine, NATO has boosted its air presence in the eastern part of the Alliance using fighter jets, surveillance planes and tankers. NATO reports that fIn the wake of Russian drone strikes near NATO territory, the United States last week deployed four additional F-16 fighter aircraft to Romania to enhance NATO’s air policing mission.

• To practice countering Russian aggression, NATO will hold its largest military exercise since the end of the Cold War next year. Steadfast Defender will involve over 40,000 troops, more than 50 ships, and 500 to 700 air combat missions.