Poland Scrambles Jets, Closes Airports Amid Russian Drone Strikes on Ukraine

Poland scrambled its military aircraft and temporarily suspended operations at airports in Rzeszów and Lublin on September 23, reacting to an extensive Russian drone assault on Ukrainian territory. The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency (PANSA) cited the need to ensure freedom of movement for military aviation as the reason for the civilian flight suspension.

Airport closures

Flights at both the Rzeszów-Jasionka airport in southeastern Poland and the Lublin airport were halted for several hours as Polish air defenses tracked Russian drones operating near NATO territory. Both airports resumed normal service once the threat subsided. Poland has repeatedly taken similar precautionary measures throughout the war, given its proximity to Ukraine.

Military response

Polish authorities did not disclose the specific number or type of aircraft scrambled, but confirmed that the step was taken to protect airspace and provide support. NATO allies have intensified monitoring of Russian aerial activity since attacks against Ukrainian infrastructure became more frequent in recent months.

Context

The broader Russian drone offensive on September 23 struck multiple Ukrainian cities, with Kyiv suffering the most casualties. Two people were killed and 22 wounded in the Ukrainian capital alone. Ukrainian defense forces reported they had struck Russian drone control centers and weapon depots in response to the wave of attacks.