NATO scrambles jets after suspected russian missile lands in Poland

NATO deployed fighter jets after a suspected Russian missile entered Polish airspace and crashed in eastern Poland, amid escalating tensions linked to the war in Ukraine.

According to Fox News, the missile crossed into Polish territory early Thursday during a large-scale overnight Russian missile and drone attack on Ukraine that reportedly killed at least eight civilians, including children, and injured more than 50 others.

A NATO spokesperson said member states, including Poland, activated F-16 fighter jets, an aerial refuelling aircraft and an airborne early warning aircraft after detecting the missile. The alliance said it would continue taking all necessary measures to protect its territory.

Polish authorities said the missile created a large crater in the village of Tarnowa-Kolonia but caused no casualties or major damage. The incident has nevertheless heightened concerns that the conflict in Ukraine could spill over into neighbouring NATO countries.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Poland and the alliance had activated both air and ground defence systems, describing the incident as another dangerous consequence of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who visited the site, said initial findings indicated the missile was Russian. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha also said a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile had violated NATO airspace.

Several eastern NATO members have reported similar incidents in recent months. Romania has repeatedly reported Russian drones entering its airspace, while Estonia and Latvia have also recorded suspected cross-border drone incursions. Poland has strengthened its air defence systems over the past year in response to recurring airspace violations linked to the conflict.