Finnish jets complete first NATO mission in Romania

Finnish jets have returned home following their first deployment under NATO’s Air Policing and Air Shielding mission in Romania.

Seven Finnish Air Force F/A-18 Hornet fighters were deployed to Mihail Kogalniceanu Air Base, Romania, on 3 June 2024, marking Finland’s first major NATO mission since joining the Alliance.

The deployment, which concluded on 29 July 2024, involved over 250 personnel from all Finnish Air Force units and was carried out in three rotations.

“The operation was interesting and rewarding. We will take home a lot of lessons learned about participating in a NATO mission and operating in a new environment,” said Major Toni Vanhatalo, Commander of the third rotation of the Finnish Air Force detachment, as quoted in the press release.

Major Vanhatalo added, “Being under the direction of NATO’s command structure required some minor changes in the planning of flight operations, but we adapted well, and also gained some lessons for developing our operations at home. Cooperation with Allies was smooth and continuous training activity improved our capabilities.”

During their deployment, Finnish jets participated in exercise Ramstein Legacy 24 in Romania and Bulgaria and worked alongside Romanian F-16s to train escort scenarios with the United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress bombers. The Finnish F/A-18 Hornets were on quick-reaction alert alongside the Royal Air Force’s Typhoon jets, enhancing NATO’s collective defence readiness in the Black Sea region.

NATO’s Air Policing and Air Shielding missions aim to ensure collective deterrence and defence, protecting and securing the integrity of NATO’s airspace. The Finnish deployment has been deemed a success, enhancing integration and interoperability among NATO Allies.

At the UK Defence Journal, we aim to deliver accurate and timely news on defence matters. We rely on the support of readers like you to maintain our independence and high-quality journalism. Please consider making a one-off donation to help us continue our work. Click here to donate. Thank you for your support!