NATO forced to scramble fighter jets to intercept Russian plane again as WW3 fears soar

There have been several incidents over recent weeks where NATO fighter jets have had to intercept Russian aircraft. 13:35, Fri, Jul 31, 2026 Updated: 14:41, Fri, Jul 31, 2026 Poland scrambled two on-duty F-16 fighter jets (Image: Getty)A NATO member has again been forced to scramble fighter jets to intercept a Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea as fears over World World 3 skyrocket. A pair of F-16s intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance aircraft some 40 kilometers (24 miles) north of Kołobrzeg.Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the aircraft was flying in international airspace without a flight plan and with its transponder turned off. He added that there was no violation of their airspace and the country will continue to "monitor the situation" and "firmly respond to the actions of the Russian Federation". Get the latest news from around the world and more Invalid emailWe use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy PolicyA pair of F-16s intercepted a Russian Il-20 reconna...