The Polish military said late Tuesday September 9 2025 it intercepted and destroyed several drones during a Russian attack on Ukraine, prompting authorities to close multiple airports. The move highlights growing regional tensions and Poland’s heightened air defense readiness.
Royal Netherlands Air Force F-35s also deployed to take out Russian drones.
Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II F-010 322 Sqn Royal Netherlands Air Force
In addition to Dutch F-35s, an Italian AWACS aircraft and a NATO Airbus A330 MRTT aircraft also took part in the operation.
Gulfstream E-550A MM62303/14-12 71° Gruppo Italian Air Force | Rob Vogelaar
The interceptions occurred overnight as Russian forces launched a large-scale strike against Ukrainian territory. Poland, a NATO member bordering Ukraine, responded by scrambling combat aircraft that neutralized several drones violating its airspace. Authorities confirmed that precautionary airport closures were ordered during the incident to ensure civilian safety.
A330-243MRTT T-057 MMU Royal Netherlands Air Force
Poland has found seven drones and the remains of a missile. A spokesperson for the Ministry of the Interior announced this during a press conference on the violation of Polish airspace.
Photos Rob Vogelaar
