The number of NATO jets intercepting Russian military aircraft in the Baltic Sea region is expected to increase by 20% to 25% in the first quarter of 2024, leading to a rise in Russian activity in the area. NATO has noticed a change in the type of Russian aircraft close to allied territory, with fewer fighter jets and bombers being detected and more surveillance or transport aircraft being intercepted. The reason behind this change in behavior is unclear, but there is speculation that Russia may need its fighter planes and bombers in Ukraine as the conflict intensifies.

NATO has not provided specific figures on the number of Russian military flights close to its territory, but it has reported that allied warplanes flew more than 300 sorties to intercept Russian aircraft last year, with most incidents occurring over the Baltic Sea. Russian military aircraft have a history of not transmitting transponder codes, filing flight plans, or communicating with air traffic controllers, raising concerns about their intentions when flying near NATO territory.

In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, NATO has increased its presence in Eastern Europe, deploying more fighter jets and establishing ground-based air defenses in the region. The alliance has also bolstered its military presence in Romania after repeated Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure near the southeastern border of NATO. NATO conducted its largest exercises since the Cold War at the beginning of the year, involving approximately 90,000 troops to rehearse the implementation of regional defense plans in response to a potential Russian attack.

The heightened NATO presence and increased interception of Russian aircraft are part of efforts to deter Russian aggression and protect allied territory in the region. The shifting dynamics of military activity and the change in the type of Russian aircraft intercepted reflect the evolving security situation in Eastern Europe. NATO continues to monitor Russian military activity closely and remains vigilant in defending against potential threats to its member states.. Read More Here