Ämari, Estonia — Amid a surge in Russian incursions into Baltic airspace, Estonia has just received Italian Eurofighter Typhoons at Ämari Air Base as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission.
Together, the allies strengthen airspace surveillance and reaffirm their message: “We Are NATO” against external threats.
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Transition and Mission Continuity
The handover took place following the rotation of the Italian F-35 detachment, which completed its deployment on September 29.
The Baltic Air Policing mission requires a 24/7 presence to intercept unidentified aircraft or those flying with transponders switched off, ensuring the air sovereignty of NATO member states.
The Eurofighters bring key capabilities to the mission, including high interception performance, rapid acceleration, and a versatile air-to-air weapons loadout (Meteor, AMRAAM, IRIS-T) to respond to various threat scenarios.
Ämari’s Strategic Role in Defending NATO’s Eastern Flank
Ämari Air Base has been part of the Baltic Air Policing mission since 2014, when it was integrated into NATO’s operational framework for this role. The base underwent upgrades in 2024, with investments to modernize its infrastructure for allied operations.
With the continued presence of Italian fighters, the alliance maintains enhanced vigilance over Baltic skies at a time of rising regional tensions and frequent air incursions near NATO borders.
Source and images: Estonian Ministry of Defence | X @MoD_Estonia. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
