Russian drones were shot down over Poland, raising concerns about potential targets and testing NATO's response. Former Lieutenant Colonel Jörgen Elfving suggests the drones might have been intended for Ukraine, but their presence in Polish airspace could indicate a malfunction or a deliberate test of NATO's defenses. Poland's decisive military response, including allied fighter jets, highlights its readiness to counter such incursions.
Russian Drones Shot Down Over Poland: A Test for NATO?
Russian Drones Shot Down Over Poland: A Test for NATO?
Russian drones were shot down over Poland on Wednesday night. The incursions reportedly occurred "several times," according to the country's military. "It's impossible to determine their target," says former Lieutenant Colonel Jörgen Elfving.
Initially, it is unclear what the drones' target was. However, they were likely intended for targets in Ukraine, says Jörgen Elfving, former Lieutenant Colonel and head of the Army Intelligence School.
"One cannot rule out the possibility that a malfunction caused them to enter Polish airspace."
Early Wednesday night, Ukraine's air force warned that drones had flown over Poland during an attack on western Ukraine. That post was later deleted.
"Flexing Muscles"
The drones were fired upon by fighter jets. This decisive action may be Poland's way of flexing its muscles and showing determination, according to Jörgen Elfving.
"Russian drones have previously flown into Polish airspace without action being taken. Additionally, there has been criticism of the Polish air defense's ability to counter drones."
Fighter jets from allied countries also participated in the operation.
"I do not rule out the possibility that Swedish fighter jets were also involved," says Jörgen Elfving.
Testing NATO
Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk reportedly held emergency meetings with defense and intelligence leaders on Wednesday morning.
Several airports in Poland have been closed, and residents in eastern Poland have been advised to stay indoors.
What happens next remains to be seen, Elfving emphasizes.
But if Russian drones continue to appear in Polish airspace, one might begin to wonder if it is intentional from the Russian side, with the aim of "testing NATO."
"If the reaction is moderate or non-existent, they will likely not hesitate to use airspace other than Russian to attack Ukraine," says Jörgen Elfving.