NATO Members Increase Air Defense Readiness Following Russian Incursions
Following a series of airspace breaches and escalating tensions, several NATO members have heightened their air defense readiness in response to Russian military activity. The incidents prompted Estonia to invoke Article 4 of the NATO charter, initiating consultations with alliance members, an action one expert described as a “stress test” by Moscow.
On Saturday, Poland’s military reported deploying Polish and allied aircraft to its airspace during long-range Russian strikes on Ukraine. The Polish armed forces stated that air defense systems and radar reconnaissance were brought to “maximum readiness” to ensure the safety of areas bordering Ukraine. Operations returned to normal levels by 5 a.m. local time.
These actions followed reports of Russian military aircraft operating near NATO airspace.Estonia accused Russia of violating its airspace when three MiG-31 fighter jets entered Estonian skies over the Gulf of Finland for 12 minutes. Russia’s Defense Ministry denied the accusation,stating the jets completed a scheduled flight within international airspace regulations.
Poland previously activated Article 4 on September 10th after identifying over 20 Russian drones in its airspace. Romania also scrambled jets in response to a Russian drone entering its territory.
the incidents have sparked concern among Western leaders. Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated, “I don’t like when that happens,” and warned of “big trouble” without elaborating.
Sanctions expert Brett Erickson, an advisor to seton Hall’s School of Diplomacy and International Relations, believes further incursions are likely unless the West implements a coordinated and robust sanctions regime. He emphasized the need for a firm stance from Western leaders, arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated he will not negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine without meaningful pressure. Erickson characterized each incursion as a “stress test” designed to gauge NATO’s response time, unity, and resolve.
NATO consultations are currently underway to address Russia’s actions. Estonia has also summoned the Russian ambassador to protest the alleged airspace violation, and European nations are considering increased political and economic pressure on Russia.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting a total of 552 drones, two ballistic missiles, and 29 cruise missiles during the overnight strikes.