A Dutch F-35A fighter jet has been awarded its first ‘drone kill’ emblem after shooting down a Russian drone that violated Polish airspace on September 9. The incident occurred during a major drone incursion involving multiple Russian Shahed-type drones, prompting a coordinated NATO response with Polish F-16s.
The F-35, tail number F-027, is part of NATO’s enhanced air policing mission in Poland. A white drone silhouette has been painted below its canopy rail to mark the confirmed kill — a symbolic first for the Dutch F-35 fleet.
Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans highlighted the mission as proof of NATO’s vigilance on its eastern flank. The Netherlands will continue its air policing mission until December 1, 2025, after which it plans to deploy Patriot missiles, NASAMS, and counter-drone systems to Poland.