Norway enhances border security: fighters will guard Polish airspace under NATO commitments
In response to escalating tensions and potential threats from Russia, Norway has announced the deployment of its fighter jets to defend Polish airspace.
According to official government statements, since the beginning of this month, Norwegian F-35 fighter jets will operate over southeastern Poland, tasked with monitoring and responding swiftly to any border violations, including possible drone and aircraft incursions from Russia.
Norwegian Defense Deputy Minister Andreas Flamm emphasized that this mission aims to protect the territorial integrity of NATO member countries in the eastern flank, based on deterrence and prevention of provocations.
He highlighted that NATO command possesses a wide array of tools to prevent air provocations, and allied military presence in the region has notably increased.
Experts note that such activity signals the alliance’s serious commitment to regional security, especially considering numerous airspace violations by Russia this year.
The Norwegian F-35 fighters, which are due to arrive in Poland soon, will undertake their second mission in 2023, following an initial operation from January to summer, aimed at demonstrating NATO’s unity and readiness to defend the eastern flank.
Moreover, during a recent visit to Warsaw, Norway’s Defense Minister reaffirmed that the main task of Norwegian fighters is airspace protection and deterrence of further Kremlin provocations.
Analysts believe this step aligns with broader NATO strategies to counter Russian destabilization efforts aimed at sowing discord within Europe and between NATO allies.