Danish F‑35 jets intercept Russian plane in Baltic first
The Danish Air Force used F-35 fighters for the first time to track a Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea. According to Denmark's Minister of Defense, this is an important step in enhancing the region's security.
What do you need to know?
- First F-35 mission: Danish F-35 fighters were deployed to track a Russian Ilyushin Il-20 aircraft over the Baltic Sea. This mission marked the first operational use of these advanced jets.
- Regional security: Denmark's Minister of Defense, Troels Lund Poulsen, emphasized the operation's importance in reaffirming Denmark's sovereignty and strengthening NATO's defense capabilities in the region.
What is the significance of using F-35s over the Baltic Sea?
The Danish Armed Forces reported that F-35 fighters were launched to monitor the Russian reconnaissance aircraft, Il-20, over the Baltic Sea. The incident took place in international airspace near the island of Bornholm.
Denmark's Minister of Defense, Troels Lund Poulsen, underscored the necessity of asserting Denmark's sovereignty, especially when Russian aircraft approach its airspace.
- The situation in the Baltic Sea remains tense due to Russia's attack on Ukraine. Along with our Nordic neighbors, as well as Poland and Germany, we have a special responsibility for the region's security, - emphasized Lund Poulsen.
Why are the F-35s crucial for Denmark?
The decision to purchase 27 F-35 fighters was made by the Danish authorities in 2016, but the aircraft's delivery was delayed. The first planes arrived in Denmark in the fall of 2023. Since then, infrastructure upgrades and personnel training have been conducted to operate the new model effectively.
At Skrydstrup Air Base, 21 F-35 aircraft are to be stationed, while six will remain in the U.S. for training Danish pilots. Meanwhile, the retiring F-16s are being prepared for transfer to Ukraine, with Ukrainian pilots and ground crew receiving training.
- The acquisition of the F-35 has enhanced the combat capabilities of the Danish military, as well as NATO's deterrence and defense in the region, - added Denmark's Minister of Defense.
