Polish Fighter Jets Intercept Russian Reconnaissance Aircraft, while Weather Probes from Belarus Violated Polish Airspace

Polish aviation intercepted a Russian reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea, and weather balloons from Belarus violated Polish airspace.

The Operational Command of the Armed Forces of Poland (DORSZ) reported this.

On the morning of December 25, 2025, Polish fighter jets intercepted a Russian reconnaissance aircraft over the international waters of the Baltic Sea.

Polish aircrews visually identified the object and escorted it out of the area of responsibility. The Russian aircraft was flying in close proximity to the borders of Polish airspace.

At the same time, the night before, radar detected the entry of an unknown aircraft into Polish airspace from the direction of Belarus. Radar surveillance systems continuously monitored their flight.

After a detailed analysis, the experts concluded that the objects were probably smuggled balloons (weather probes) that were moving in accordance with the wind direction and speed.

For safety reasons, part of the airspace over the Podlaskie Voivodeship was temporarily closed to civil aviation.

The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces emphasizes that there is no direct threat to the security of the country’s airspace. Specialized services are identifying the found objects and taking the necessary measures on the ground.

At the same time, they noted that Poland’s military leadership is in constant contact with allies and related structures. Regular forces and assets are in a state of constant readiness to respond to any challenges.

The last time Polish aviation intercepted a Russian Il-20 aircraft was in October 2025.

Back then, a pair of MiG-29 fighter jets from the Polish Air Force identified a Russian plane conducting a reconnaissance mission in international airspace without a flight plan and with its transponder off.

Polish MiG-29 fighters intercepted, visually identified, and escorted the Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea.