German Eurofighters' first scramble from Latvia intercepts Russian aircraft
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On Friday, two German Eurofighter jets were deployed from the Latvian base Lielvarde with the objective to escort two Russian military aircraft spotted over the Baltic Sea, closely approaching Latvian airspace.
Fighters scrambled just a day after arrival
The Allied Air Command disclosed this information on Saturday.
Friday signalled the commencement of the German air forces’ mission, which is integral to the NATO Baltic Air Policing. This mission is stationed in Lielvarde, Latvia, where Germany assumed leadership following the Polish forces.
On February 26, five German Eurofighter planes arrived at the Latvian base in Lielvarde. The following morning, two of them were dispatched to accompany Russian military aircraft. These aircraft were navigating international waters of the Baltic Sea, nearing the territorial waters of Latvia. Once the mission was accomplished, the German Eurofighter jets returned to base.
Col. Viesturs Masulis, the commander of the Latvian air forces, stated: - The first scramble of German Eurofighters from the Lielvarde base underscores NATO's capability and dedication towards the deterrence and – if necessary – the defense of allied airspace. We are perpetually vigilant to potential threats to our territory and remain on alert round the clock.
NATO Baltic Air Policing Mission
An official ceremony welcoming the NATO Baltic Air Policing mission is scheduled for Saturday in Lielvarde. This occasion marks the first time Latvia is hosting this mission. The responsibility for the mission was transferred to Latvia for a nine-month period due to renovation works at the Estonian base in Amari.
The NATO Baltic Air Policing mission is tasked with overseeing the airspace of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. Initiated in 2004 upon these nations joining NATO, the operation involves aircraft deployments from air bases in Šiauliai, Lithuania, and Amari, Estonia.
