Poland scrambled fighter jets and placed its air defence systems on heightened alert after Russia launched a major wave of attacks on neighbouring Ukraine, the Polish military said.
The precautionary measures were taken on Friday, October 16, as Russian strikes targeted several parts of Ukraine, including areas near the Polish border. Poland activated military aircraft, ground-based air defence systems and radar reconnaissance to protect its airspace.
Polish Military Monitored the Situation
Poland’s Operational Command said it had deployed the forces and resources necessary to safeguard national airspace while the Russian attacks were underway.
The military monitored developments continuously and increased readiness in areas close to Ukraine. Such measures are intended to help Poland respond quickly if the fighting creates a threat to its territory.
Polish authorities later reported that the risk from attacks near the country’s border had decreased. The military aircraft returned to base, and the air defence and radar systems resumed their standard operational activities.
No violation of Polish airspace was reported during the operation, according to the military statement.
Flights Temporarily Affected at Two Airports
The activation of military aircraft also affected civilian aviation in eastern Poland.
Poland’s air navigation authority said operations at Lublin Airport were temporarily suspended, while flights at Rzeszów Airport faced restrictions to allow military aircraft to operate safely.
Both airports subsequently resumed normal operations, according to reports.
The temporary measures highlighted the potential impact of Russia’s attacks on Ukraine beyond the immediate battlefield, particularly in countries located close to the conflict.
Attacks Hit Regions Across Ukraine
Russia launched another wave of air strikes against Ukraine on Friday morning, with attacks reported across the country.
In western Ukraine’s Volyn region, strikes disrupted electricity supplies, affecting hundreds of thousands of people. Local authorities also reported injuries. Other attacks were reported in cities and regions elsewhere in Ukraine.
The strikes came amid Russia’s continuing war against Ukraine, which has repeatedly involved missile and drone attacks on energy infrastructure, residential areas and other targets.
NATO’s Eastern Flank Remains on Alert
Poland is a member of NATO and shares a border with Ukraine. Its location has made airspace security a major concern as the war continues.
Polish forces have repeatedly increased readiness during large Russian attacks on Ukraine. These operations do not necessarily mean Polish territory has been attacked; they are precautionary steps intended to protect the country and monitor possible threats near its borders.
The latest operation ended after the perceived threat to areas bordering Poland declined. The military did not report an incursion into Polish airspace during the incident.
