Russian military aircraft have repeatedly violated NATO airspace, with Estonia being the latest target, prompting concerns over collective defense readiness.
Russia has once again breached NATO airspace, with three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets entering Estonian airspace for 12 minutes on September 19. This marks the third such incident this month, following similar events in Poland and Romania.
According to General Artur Jakubczyk, a reserve brigadier in the Polish Army, Russia’s actions aim to test NATO’s collective defense and response. “To what extent the Russians can push forward, only they know,” he said, highlighting that these incidents check the readiness and unity of NATO’s response.
The general emphasized that Russia’s strategy involves identifying weaknesses in air defense systems, command structures, and the flow of information between the attacked country and NATO allies. He warned that “these attacks will intensify.”
Gen. Jakubczyk noted that Russia has been testing Poland’s defenses since at least 2012, initially using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that were often mistaken for smuggling attempts. Over time, Russia has escalated its actions, deploying more sophisticated assets.
The general also discussed Russia’s involvement in Ukraine, stating that Moscow’s goals extend beyond the current conflict. He expressed concerns that Russia’s economy, now on a war footing, indicates that further aggression is likely.
Gen. Jakubczyk stressed the need for a unified air defense system and a strong response to Russian aggression. “We must be prepared for these attacks to intensify,” he warned, emphasizing that NATO’s reaction so far has been a positive sign but not a guarantee of future safety.
