Poland scrambles air defences following Russian strikes on Ukraine

Polish combat aviation was placed on alert, and ground reconnaissance and air defence systems were brought to heightened readiness in response to Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian territory.

According to the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces, posted on the social network X, Polish and allied aircraft began operating in the country’s airspace.

Operowanie polskiego i sojuszniczego lotnictwa w naszej przestrzeni powietrznej, związane z uderzeniami Federacji Rosyjskiej na Ukrainę, zostało zakończone. Uruchomione naziemne systemy obrony powietrznej i rozpoznania radiolokacyjnego powróciły do standardowej działalności… pic.twitter.com/8pM779iNND

— Dowództwo Operacyjne RSZ (@DowOperSZ) March 24, 2026

In line with established procedures, available forces and assets were mobilized, including a standby pair of fighters and a radar-detection aircraft, while ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems were elevated to the highest state of readiness.

“Due to the activity of Russia’s long-range aviation, which is striking Ukrainian territory, Polish and allied aviation began operating in Poland’s airspace. In accordance with current procedures, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces mobilized the necessary forces and assets available. A standby pair of fighters and a radar-detection aircraft were scrambled, and the ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems were brought to the state of highest readiness,” the Operational Command said.

Officials emphasized that these measures are preventive and aimed at safeguarding Poland’s airspace, particularly in regions near potential threats. The command assured that all forces and assets remain fully prepared for immediate action if necessary.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to employ strike drones and cruise missiles against Ukraine, prompting air alerts in multiple regions. Poland’s security forces continue to closely monitor the situation, maintaining high readiness to respond to any developments along the border or in the airspace. Regional allies remain on alert to provide support as needed.

By Vafa Guliyeva