Poland has temporarily restricted civilian air traffic over certain areas of its airspace following the detection of objects likely identified as balloons entering from Belarus. This incident occurred overnight on Friday, just days after a similar occurrence forced airspace closures in northeastern Poland.
The Polish armed forces reported on X that there was a “high probability” these objects were indeed balloons. Military radar systems tracked their movements, leading to the implementation of civil aviation restrictions in the Podlaskie province for safety reasons. Fortunately, no direct threats to airspace safety were recorded. Unlike previous escalations, there were no aircraft deployed in response to this incident, which reflects a shift from protocols used during earlier Russian drone strikes that posed risks to Polish airspace.
This incident marks another event in a concerning trend, as Poland has previously reported multiple instances involving balloons entering its airspace from Belarus—an ally of Russia known for its hybrid warfare tactics. These balloons have been suspected of carrying contraband, including illegal goods. The situation has alarmed members of the NATO alliance, particularly those in eastern Europe, who feel increasingly vulnerable to such hybrid tactics.
In a notable case earlier this month, Poland’s government summoned the Belarusian chargé d’affaires after previous reports highlighted smuggling-related balloon incidents near the Belarusian border. On previous occasions, including late December, Polish authorities recorded dozens of such balloons crossing into their territory.
To strengthen security in light of these growing threats, NATO announced in September an enhancement of its air presence on the eastern front, particularly following a significant incursion involving around 20 Russian drones that also crossed into Poland.
Officials express that the security of Polish airspace remains intact, yet the recurrence of these incidents raises alarms about ongoing hybrid warfare strategies employed by Belarus and Russia. The consistent surveillance and readiness exhibited by the Polish armed forces reflect a commitment to safeguarding national airspace and addressing potential threats with vigilance.