Polish Jets Intercept Russian Reconnaissance Plane Baltic Sea Amid Regional Tensions

Polish fighter jets intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea that was flying without a flight plan and had its transponder switched off, though it did not violate Polish airspace. The Polish military emphasized the professionalism and readiness of their pilots, highlighting vigilance in protecting national airspace amid ongoing tensions. This incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened NATO alertness following recent Russian airspace incursions into Estonia and Poland, including drone and jet violations earlier in September. NATO leadership acknowledged that while Russia seems deterred by firm alliance responses, Moscow is likely to continue testing NATO's boundaries. The Russian reconnaissance flights often originate from the Kaliningrad naval base and have prompted concerns among NATO members about security and territorial integrity. Poland and Estonia have invoked Article 4 of the NATO charter in response to these provocations, underscoring the alliance's commitment to collective defense.