A Russian Military Helicopter Violated Polish Airspace

• 23.09.2026, 15:49

It was in the Polish sky for 42 seconds.

On Wednesday, September 23, a Russian Mi-8 military helicopter violated Polish airspace after flying in from the Kaliningrad region. It remained in Polish airspace for 42 seconds. This was reported by the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces.

The incident occurred on September 23 at 11:08 a.m. north of the city of Branewo. The Russian helicopter entered Polish airspace to a depth of about 300 meters.

The aircraft’s movements were initially tracked by Polish radar systems.

Due to the border violation, fighter jets were immediately scrambled, and ground forces and air defense systems were put on alert.

The command emphasized that the nature of this incident indicates yet another attempt by Russia to test the readiness of Poland’s air defense system.

Polish air defense units continue round-the-clock surveillance and remain on constant alert to defend the country’s airspace.