A Russian reconnaissance aircraft, the IL-20M, recently flew over the Baltic Sea, prompting a swift response from NATO forces.

Fighter jets from Germany, Sweden, and the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission were deployed to escort the Russian plane, which was flying without a flight plan or contact with civilian air traffic control.

Such uncommunicated flights by Russian military aircraft are reportedly frequent, occurring almost weekly, and often test NATO's response.

Although these flights approach NATO airspace, they do not violate it.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region, especially following the accession of Finland and Sweden to NATO in 2023 and 2024, respectively, leaving Russia as the only non-NATO Baltic state.