Danish F‑35s debut in Baltic, tracking Russian aircraft
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 Defence, this represents an important step in strengthening the region's security.
What do you need to know?
- First F-35 mission: Danish F-35 fighters were used to track a Russian Ilyushin Il-20 aircraft over the Baltic Sea. This marked the first time these advanced machines participated in such a mission.
- Regional security: Denmark's Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, stressed the importance of this operation in reaffirming Denmark's sovereignty and boosting NATO's defensive capabilities in the area.
What is the significance of using F-35s over the Baltic Sea?
The Danish Armed Forces reported that F-35 fighters were scrambled to track the Russian reconnaissance aircraft Il-20 over the Baltic Sea. The incident occurred in international airspace near the island of Bornholm.
Denmark's Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, pointed out that a main task is to reaffirm Denmark's sovereignty, especially when Russian planes approach Danish airspace.
Lund Poulsen highlighted that Russia's aggression against Ukraine continues to strain the security situation in the Baltic Sea. He noted that Poland and Germany, along with Nordic partners, share a responsibility to ensure stability in the region.
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 deliveries were delayed. The first planes arrived in Denmark in the fall of 2023. Since then, infrastructure adjustments and personnel training for the new model have been ongoing.
At the Skrydstrup base, 21 F-35 aircraft are slated to be stationed, while six will remain in the United States to train Danish pilots. Meanwhile, the retiring F-16s are being prepared for transfer to Ukraine, and Ukrainian pilots and ground crew are receiving training.
"The acquisition of the F-35 has enhanced the combat capabilities of the Danish military, as well as the deterrence and defence capabilities of NATO in the region," added Denmark's Minister of Defence.
