Poland activates air defenses amid Russian strikes on Ukraine

Poland's military activated aircraft and placed ground-based air defense and radar systems on heightened readiness early Thursday in response to Russian long-range aviation activity targeting Ukraine, the Polish Army said. The Operational Command of the Armed Forces announced the measures through the Air Operations Center - Air Component Command. It activated necessary forces and resources at its disposal to monitor the developing threat.

"In accordance with applicable procedures, the Operational Command of the Armed Forces, through the Air Operations Center - Air Component Command, has activated the necessary forces and resources at its disposal," the army said on the social media platform X. The statement added that ground-based air defense systems and radar reconnaissance assets had been placed on heightened readiness.

Preventive readiness

The deployment aims to secure Polish airspace near the conflict zone. "These actions are of a preventive nature and are aimed at securing airspace and its protection, especially in areas adjacent to threatened regions," the army said. It noted that subordinate forces remained ready to respond immediately while commanders continue monitoring the situation.