Dutch F-35s Conduct First Interceptions of Russian Aircraft Over Baltic Sea

Two Dutch F-35 fighter jets intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea during NATO’s air policing mission last Friday.

This marked the first interceptions conducted by the Dutch detachment deployed to Estonia since the beginning of December, the Dutch defense ministry said in an official release.

The Dutch F-35s are part of NATO’s Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) initiative, which requires fighter jets to scramble within minutes to intercept aircraft that approach NATO airspace without proper identification. The QRA was activated twice on Friday from Ämari Air Base in Estonia.

During the first activation, the F-35s identified a Russian AN-72 COALER transport aircraft and a Su-24MR Fencer E reconnaissance aircraft, both of which were operating near NATO airspace. Later in the afternoon, the QRA was activated again to intercept an IL-20 Coot A spy plane. The Dutch jets escorted all three aircraft over international waters while maintaining a safe distance from NATO’s borders.

Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans commented on the interceptions, stating, “This is why our people are there: to protect our collective airspace against Russian threats. As was once again evident on Friday, Russian forces are active in various ways near NATO airspace. Our allies in the Baltic states are pleased with our efforts.”

The Netherlands has deployed four F-35s to Estonia as part of NATO’s air policing mission, which aims to monitor and safeguard airspace in Eastern Europe. These aircraft have been on patrol since December 1, with their operations underscoring NATO’s commitment to maintaining the security of its eastern flank.