RNLAF F-35 Downs Russian Drone in Poland: A Costly Victory?
The Royal Netherlands Air Force achieved its first confirmed combat kill with an F-35A fighter jet, downing a Russian drone. Tail number F-027 of the 313th Squadron was involved in the operation, which occurred during a sortie over Poland. The Dutch Ministry of Defense revealed an official photo showcasing the kill mark, a symbol of the successful downing. This marks a historic first for a NATO-operated fifth-generation F-35. The Dutch F-35s are stationed in Poland as part of NATO’s collective defense mission, which has already resulted in combat operations.
John Q. Hosedrinker