Poland scrambles jets amid Russian long-range aviation activity

Poland has deployed military aircraft in its airspace after detecting activity by Russian long-range aviation targeting Ukraine, the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces said on X.

“In accordance with existing procedures, we have deployed the necessary forces and assets at our disposal,” the command said.

“Fighter jets have been scrambled, and ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems have reached a state of readiness.”

The command described the measures as preventative, aimed at securing and protecting Polish airspace, particularly near regions considered at risk.

“Our forces and assets remain ready to respond immediately, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” it added.

Russian Tu‑22M3 long‑range bombers, capable of carrying long‑range cruise missiles such as the Kh‑22 and Kh‑101, were reported flying extended sorties over international airspace, including above the Black Sea, in mid‑December.

These flights, which lasted more than five hours and were accompanied by Su‑35S and Su‑27 fighters, were described by Moscow as “routine” missions, though Western militaries routinely monitor such activity as part of NATO air policing efforts. 

In addition to these flights, Russia’s Tu‑95MS strategic bombers conducted planned missions over the Barents Sea and Norwegian Sea on December 25, with foreign fighter aircraft shadowing them at times, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence. The ministry stressed that all operations complied with international airspace rules.

By Aghakazim Guliyev