In a move to bolster NATO's air defense amid recent Russian provocations, Turkey has deployed an AWACS aircraft to Lithuania from September 22 to 25, showcasing the alliance's efforts to monitor and respond to increased airspace violations.

This AWACS deployment, which includes Turkish F-16s participating in NATO training in Romania, is part of a broader NATO effort to enhance regional security, especially in the Baltic region.

The AWACS aircraft, equipped with advanced radar capable of detecting low-flying drones and stealthy objects, symbolizes NATO's response to Russian incursions, including violations by Russian military aircraft such as helicopters and transport planes.

Following a Russian MiG-31 violation over the Gulf of Finland, Estonia has initiated NATO consultations under Article 4, emphasizing the heightened tensions and the need for coordinated responses.

Turkey, NATO’s second-largest army, maintains a delicate balance by condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and supporting Kyiv militarily, while avoiding full sanctions against Russia to preserve energy and tourism ties.

Despite its support for Ukraine, Turkey has not joined Western sanctions against Russia, exemplifying its strategic diplomacy aimed at balancing relations with both Moscow and Western allies.

Turkish officials confirmed the deployment of the AWACS aircraft during a recent briefing, noting the mission's duration from September 22 to 25, with additional NATO air and missile defense training involving Turkish F-16s in Romania.

Amidst these developments, a GPS jamming incident near Kaliningrad affected Spanish military aircraft, but navigation was not compromised; Spain attributed the interference to Russia.

NATO members, including Poland and the UK, have expressed readiness to shoot down objects that violate their airspace, while French President Macron advocates for escalating responses without resorting to open fire, reflecting rising regional tensions.

Western officials believe Russia is testing NATO’s readiness through these airspace violations, aiming to gauge the alliance’s response capabilities amid ongoing provocations.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Šakalenė confirmed that missions involving aircraft like the Turkish AWACS will continue in the Baltic region, emphasizing these are not isolated operations.

The Turkish AWACS system, known as Peace Eagle, offers extensive radar detection and real-time communication capabilities, supporting NATO’s joint operations in the region.