The Finnish Air Force today launched Exercise Baana 25, conducting air operations from a section of highway E75 near Tikkakoski.
This training, running through May 29, aims to enhance dispersed operation capabilities—an essential component of Finland’s mobile combat doctrine.
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During the exercise, Finnish F/A-18 Hornet and Royal Netherlands Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets operate jointly, including takeoffs and landings on adapted highway sections. This marks the first time Dutch F-35As participate in Baana 25, highlighting growing tactical cooperation between Finland and its NATO allies.
To ensure safety, Finnish authorities have banned the use of binoculars or telescopes within a 20 km radius of Jyväskylä Airport during flight operations, due to the risk of eye injuries from laser reflections used in air defense training.
The Baana exercise is held biennially and involves around 2,000 personnel, including conscripts, reservists, active service members, and allied forces. Practicing operations on highways like the E75 allows the Finnish Air Force to maintain operational capability even if conventional air bases are compromised.
The participation of Dutch F-35As in Baana 25 reinforces interoperability among NATO air forces, aligning with the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, which seeks to increase flexibility and resilience in contested air operations.
Source and images: X @FinnishAirForce. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
