MINSK — Belarus has noted a significant number of NATO reconnaissance and tactical aircraft flights near its borders, according to statements from Air Force Commander Andrei Lukyanovich on Belarusian state television channel STV.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the Belarusian defense forces record between 30 to 40 reconnaissance flights weekly, and as many as 30 tactical aircraft flights daily. The frequency intensifies during training exercises involving strike tactics aimed at the Kaliningrad region and Belarus, with counts rising to 40 to 50 flights on some days. These operations utilize the full arsenal available to NATO countries, underscoring a heightened military readiness in the region.
Additionally, Lukyanovich highlighted the presence of cruise missile carriers in both the Baltic Sea and the Mediterranean, with capacities surpassing 600 missiles, all within range of Belarusian territory. This development is part of a broader trend of military enhancements by NATO countries adjacent to Belarus, including modernization of military infrastructures such as airfields, naval bases, and training ranges.
Specific upgrades in Poland and the Baltic states include the modernization of five airfields, two naval bases, and six training ranges. Moreover, these nations are procuring advanced military equipment from the U.S. and South Korea, including Abrams and K2 Black Panther tanks. Poland, in particular, is set to enhance its military capabilities significantly with upcoming acquisitions of 32 F-35 aircraft and 96 Apache attack helicopters from the United States.