NATO has redeployed Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft over Poland to monitor the skies over Ukraine, supporting the Alliance's increased regional presence and monitoring Russian military activity. The data gathered is transmitted to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, reports the UK Defense Journal.

"Officially, any intelligence collected is sent only to NATO countries, but it is well known that some of these countries quickly share information with Ukraine, allowing them to counter incoming attacks. Western intelligence gives Ukraine the opportunity to react a little faster," said a former Royal Air Force officer who wished to remain anonymous.

"As Russia's illegal war in Ukraine continues to threaten peace and security in Europe, there should be no doubt about NATO's determination to protect and defend every inch of Alliance territory. Our AWACS can detect aircraft hundreds of kilometers away, making them a key deterrent and defense force for NATO," stated NATO spokeswoman Oana Lungescu during a similar deployment last year.

In response to Russia's war in Ukraine, NATO has increased its air presence in Eastern Europe with additional fighter jets, surveillance planes, and refueling aircraft.

Since February 2022, NATO AWACS aircraft have been conducting regular patrols over Eastern Europe and the Baltic Sea region to track Russian warplanes near NATO borders.