NATO Air Command reported that two Italian F-35 fighters took off from the ämari air base in Estonia to intercept a Russian military aircraft operating near the alliance airspace.
According to NATO, takeoff was performed under the Baltic Air Policing Mission, after the radars detected the approach of a An-124 Condorheavy transport aircraft from Russia. The flight drew attention for being on international waters, but no flight plan, no active transponder and without communication with air traffic control.
The Italian aircraft, operated by Task Force Air units of the 32nd and 6th squads, performed the interception to ensure the safe follow -up of the Condor’s trajectory. NATO command pointed out that the operation demonstrates the alliance’s commitment to protect the Baltic States and maintain security in the east flank.
Collective defense in the Baltic
The sending of Italian fighters is part of NATO’s permanent mission to safeguard the airspace of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, in a rotary system of contributing air forces. The presence of Italy on the base of ämari reinforces the integrated approach to collective defense, with the allies sharing dissuasive and vigilance responsibilities at the borders of the alliance.
The AN-124 Condor, considered one of the largest military transport aircraft in operation in the world, was escorted until it left the area monitored. Upon completion of the mission, the Italian F-35 returned to the base.
Russian activity
Italian pilots have already participated in several interceptions in the Baltic, supporting allied partners in the face of increased Russian military activity in the region. These missions included meetings with fighters, bombers and transport aircraft.
Source: x @nato_aircom. This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team.
