NATO scrambled fighters 250% more often to intercept Russian aircraft in July
Photo: There were several reasons for the interception (Getty Images)
In July 2026, NATO scrambled its fighter jets 250% more often to intercept Russian aircraft near Alliance territory. This comparison of sorties is based on the same period last year, according to NATO's Joint Force Command in Central and Eastern Europe.
"The Numbers Don't Lie ! Compare July 25 with July 26 and the picture is impossible to ignore: Alpha Scrambles along NATO's Eastern Flank increased by more than 250%, the post states.
The command adds that Russian military aircraft have repeatedly flown near NATO airspace without a flight plan and without activating their transponders.
This, in turn, forced the Alliance to scramble fighter jets to intercept and identify Russian aircraft.
"Every interception proves that NATO airspace is protected," the command concludes.
Russian aircraft interceptions
On August 4, the Polish Ministry of Defense stated that the country's fighter jets had intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft. This occurred 56 km from Koszalin, located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship.
On August 3, Polish fighter jets also intercepted a Russian reconnaissance aircraft. This took place over the Baltic Sea. It is known that the aircraft's transponder was turned off.
