NATO jets scrambled after a Russian missile detonated on Polish territory

NATO said on Thursday, 30 July 2026 (8 Mordad 1405) that F-16 fighter jets, along with an aerial refuelling aircraft and an airborne early warning plane, were scrambled after a Russian missile entered Polish airspace and crashed. An alliance spokesperson said NATO would continue to take all necessary measures to defend its territory.

According to Polish authorities, the explosion created a wide crater in the eastern village of Tarnawa-Kolonia and caused no injuries or damage. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who travelled to the site, said everything indicated it was a Russian missile. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called it a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte described the incident as a reckless act by Russia.

The missile was part of a barrage of ballistic missiles and drones launched by Russia at Ukraine overnight, killing at least eight civilians, including children, and injuring more than 50. Romania had also summoned Russia's ambassador on Monday after three drones entered its airspace. Repeated airspace violations along NATO's eastern flank are one channel that can keep a risk premium in European energy markets.