Polish planes intercepted a Russian reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea, causing tensions between Russia and NATO.

A recent aerial incident has intensified tensions between Russia and NATO states, when Polish fighter jets intercepted a Russian Ilyushin Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft over the Baltic Sea. The Russian aircraft, which was on its ninth reconnaissance mission of the year, was flying without a flight plan and with its transponder turned off, behaviors considered provocative. The interception took place on March 13, when two Polish MiG-29 aircraft were scrambled to escort the plane, although it did not enter Polish airspace. The incident joins other similar Russian flights near NATO's eastern flank, and Norway has mobilized F-35 aircraft to track Russian aircraft in the context of the military exercise 'Cold Response.' NATO has initiated operation 'Eastern Sentry' to enhance air security in the region, involving contributions from several member states. Polish forces stated that the interception was carried out in conditions of safety and professionalism.