NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft have successfully integrated with the Swedish Air Force, marking a significant step in enhancing operational cooperation with NATO’s newest member.
During flights on 1 and 2 September 2024, Swedish JAS-39 Gripen fighter jets operated under the control of NATO AWACS in Swedish airspace, further advancing Sweden’s integration into NATO’s air command structures.
The AWACS missions aimed to normalise diplomatic clearance procedures and streamline Sweden’s participation in NATO operations.
Colonel Dennis Hedström, Commander of the Swedish Air Staff, stated, “Sweden has now been a member of NATO for six months and is making great strides advancing integration in Alliance air force and command structures. By carrying out everyday operations and activities with common resources, we become stronger together and enhance our interoperability.”
This exercise is not the first time NATO AWACS has operated in Swedish airspace, having supported major international exercises like Arctic Challenge.
However, the recent missions represent a shift towards more routine training and cooperation. The AWACS aircraft controlled Swedish fighter jets in airspace shared with civilian traffic, requiring careful coordination.
Colonel Hedström added, “What has been new is the fact NATO AWACS has been integrated into Swedish day-to-day operations,” emphasising that the missions were conducted in unplanned airspace, adding to the complexity.
Two liaison officers from the Swedish Combat Command and Air Surveillance Battalion were aboard the AWACS to ensure smooth coordination with Swedish authorities. This cooperation demonstrates the growing integration between Swedish and NATO forces, signalling a blurring of the lines between national and international operations.
The NATO AWACS fleet, primarily based in Geilenkirchen, Germany, temporarily deployed from Rygge Air Base in Norway for the exercise.
