Finnish F-18 Fighter Jets Land in Denmark for the First Time Following NATO Entry

Two Finnish F-18 fighter jets landed at Bornholm Airport as part of a planned training exercise, marking the first time these aircraft have touched down on the Danish island.

This development follows Finland's recent entry into NATO, which has opened up new opportunities for military cooperation between the Nordic countries.

The Finnish pilots' visit to Rønne was designed to familiarize them with the local conditions at Bornholm Airport, including the approach, landing procedures, and available facilities. This training flight is part of broader efforts to enhance interoperability among Nordic air forces and ensure that Bornholm Airport could serve as an alternative landing site in future operations.

During the exercise, Bornholm Airport managed the refueling and handling of the F-18 jets. Senior Sergeant Jesper, who oversaw the Finnish visit, noted the unique challenges presented by Bornholm's shorter runway, particularly for aircraft like the F-18, which differs from the F-16s that Denmark typically operates from the site.

"The runway on Bornholm is a little shorter than most others, and the F-18 is a different combat aircraft than the F-16 that Denmark is used to operating from here, so it was interesting to hear how the pilots experienced landing here," Jesper explained.

Despite the challenges, the Finnish pilots reported no issues. "We are used to landing on short runways and under many different conditions," said one of the Finnish pilots, codenamed "Loudeater," during their two-hour stopover on Bornholm.

Loudeater emphasized the strategic importance of Bornholm's location, particularly for operations involving flights from Finland to other parts of Europe. "Bornholm is incredibly well located for us when we have to go from Finland and further down into Europe or operate in the area, so I don't think this will be the last time we are here," Loudeater remarked.

After their brief stay, the Finnish pilots continued their journey to a destination further south in Europe. This visit is part of a broader initiative to strengthen cooperation among the Nordic air forces, with increased use of each other's facilities. In a similar exercise in June, Swedish Gripen fighter jets also refueled at Bornholm Airport.