According to NATO officer Lieutenant Colonel Fernando Allen, the Boeing F/A-18 Hornet is currently the best fighter jet to monitor and respond to new threats emerging from Russia. The Hornets are actively patrolling Baltic airspace, especially after Spain assumed NATO's air policing responsibilities at the Šiauliai airbase in Lithuania late last year. This strategic deployment aims to enhance aerial surveillance in a region that has seen increased military activity due to geopolitical tensions.

Allen highlights the adaptability of the Hornet, explaining that it excels at engaging both fast jets and slower drones. He noted that the aircraft's ability to fly at very low speeds makes it particularly effective for detecting and intercepting a wide range of aerial threats, which is crucial in a landscape where UAVs and other small aircraft are increasingly prevalent. With over a thousand flight hours on the Hornet, he asserts that no other aircraft matches its versatility in such operations.

The article also briefly touches on recent developments in aerial combat technology, mentioning that new F-35 fighters are encountering challenges in radar installations. This could impact NATO's broader strategic capabilities, especially as the alliance seeks to counter advanced platforms like Russia's Su-57 stealth fighter, which has reportedly made an unexpected appearance in Africa. These dynamics continue to shape NATO's mission and aerial defense strategies in Eastern Europe, emphasizing the importance of reliable and capable aircraft like the Hornet.