Norwegian Air Force sees 25% rise in interceptions in 2024
In 2024, Norway recorded a 25% increase in air force interventions due to Russian aircraft approaching its airspace.
The Norwegian air force in 2024 had to respond more frequently to the presence of Russian aircraft near its airspace. As reported by the Norwegian military authorities, cited by the Polish Press Agency, the number of such interventions increased by 25% compared to the previous year.
For years, in northern Scandinavia, there have been situations where unidentified aircraft with transponders turned off approach Norwegian airspace. Although there are fewer incidents than during the Cold War, their number is steadily growing. In 2024, Norwegian F-35 fighters were dispatched 38 times as part of the QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) to identify foreign aircraft, which represents an increase of eight interventions compared to 2023.
As a result of these actions, 69 Russian aircraft were identified, including reconnaissance and electronic surveillance aircraft and strategic bombers Tu-95 escorted by Su-33 fighters. Major Stian Roen, press officer of the Norwegian military aviation, emphasized that although there has been no violation of Norwegian airspace, the situation is monitored.
This is essentially a routine operation for us. We operate within NATO, which means that we have two fighters ready to take off at any time. When the alarm is raised, the aircraft will be airborne within 15 minutes, explained a Norwegian military official to PAP.
Cooperation within NATO
The QRA procedure provides that upon detection of an aircraft with the transponder turned off, without contact with civilian air control, or without a current flight plan, the Combined Air Operations Center in Germany decides to dispatch fighters. These, guided by air control, approach the unknown aircraft, position themselves behind it in flight, and escort it to a designated airport or out of the NATO responsibility area.
The Norwegian air force remains on constant alert to ensure the safety of the country's and the region's airspace. Cooperation within NATO is crucial for effectively responding to such incidents.
