Poland scrambled fighter jets after a Russian Il-20 appeared over the Baltic Sea
The Polish military scrambled fighter jets after detecting a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft in international waters of the Baltic Sea on May 13. The aircraft was escorted in accordance with NATO air security procedures.
This was announced by Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz on social media.
“Our aircraft intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft over international waters in the Baltic Sea,” the post reads.
The Polish minister noted that this was yet another aggressive act by the Russian Federation and a test of “our air defense systems.” He emphasized that flights without transponders turned on can pose a threat to other aircraft.
“Our pilots respond immediately to any such provocation,” Vladislav Kosiniak-Kamysz concluded.
As a reminder, the Ukrainian Air Force demonstrated unprecedented effectiveness in repelling a massive Russian attack on March 24, 2026.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has announced a new delivery of French Mirage 2000-5 aircraft, which will significantly enhance the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ capabilities in intercepting cruise missiles and Shahed-type strike drones.
