NATO jets scrambled after drone enters Lithuanian airspace
Italian fighter jets responded to an unidentified drone over Lithuania; falling debris damaged a civilian vehicle with no injuries reported.
At a glance
- Two Italian Eurofighter jets were scrambled under NATO command in response to the drone
- Debris from the incident damaged a civilian vehicle; no injuries reported
- Lithuanian and Polish authorities are investigating the incident together
- NATO said it maintains 24/7 readiness to protect its territory
NATO scrambled two Italian Eurofighter jets on Sunday after a suspected drone entered Lithuanian airspace, with debris from the incident damaging a moving civilian vehicle in the country's north. The incident prompted an investigation involving Lithuanian and Polish authorities, with Lithuania's Defence Minister saying preliminary findings suggested the object had entered from neighbouring Poland.
A NATO official said the alliance remained in close contact with Lithuanian authorities and was ready to respond to potential threats around the clock. Authorities confirmed debris struck a vehicle travelling in northern Lithuania, though no injuries were reported.
Why it matters
The incident reflects growing concerns about spillover from Russia's war in Ukraine affecting NATO member states.
Original reporting
- Saudi Gazette — LatestNATO scrambles fighter jets after drone enters Lithuanian airspace, damages car
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