NATO fighter jets shot down a drone that entered Lithuanian airspace near Kaunas shortly after midnight on 15 September 2026. The drone likely entered from Belarus. This is the first recorded incident of NATO jets shooting down a drone in Lithuanian airspace. Alerts were issued to residents in the Vilnius region advising them to seek shelter. The incident underscores heightened regional tensions amid Russia's intensified aggression against Ukraine. Debris from the drone will be examined to determine origin and intent. The Lithuanian and Italian forces involved acted rapidly and professionally. NATO and UK officials emphasized commitment to defend NATO airspace. No official comment has been made by Moscow regarding the incident.

NATO fighter jets shot down a drone that entered Lithuanian airspace near Kaunas shortly after midnight on 15 September 2026. The drone likely entered from Belarus. This is the first recorded incident of NATO jets shooting down a drone in Lithuanian airspace. Alerts were issued to residents in the Vilnius region advising them to seek shelter. The incident underscores heightened regional tensions amid Russia's intensified aggression against Ukraine. Debris from the drone will be examined to determine origin and intent. The Lithuanian and Italian forces involved acted rapidly and professionally. NATO and UK officials emphasized commitment to defend NATO airspace. No official comment has been made by Moscow regarding the incident.