In Belarus, A Fighter Jet Was Raised In The Air On Alert

• 19.02.2026, 17:30

To shoot down an unidentified object.

As "Flagstaff" learned from one of the Ukrainian Telegram channels engaged in monitoring the air situation, on February 18 afternoon, a Belarusian Su-30 fighter jet was raised on alert from the Baranovichi airfield due to the detection of an unidentified object in the airspace of Belarus.

On approaching it, it turned out to be a large plastic balloon with a suspended cargo. At about 14:30 (Belarusian time), the pilot shot it down. The area of the shootdown is unknown.

It is noteworthy that on February 18, a westerly wind prevailed over Belarus around lunchtime. Thus, it can be assumed that Belarusian contraband destined for the EU came under fire.

It should also be noted that balloons are used in Belarus and neighboring countries for weather observation and military communication systems.