In line with reports earlier this month, the Finnish Air Force has announced that its F/A-18 Hornet fighters have arrived in Iceland to begin their Air Policing Missions. This marks the first time that the newly joined NATO member is deploying its own fighters to protect the airspace of the island nation. For now, four aircraft of this model have been deployed and are set to begin operations from Keflavík Air Base, located in western Iceland, starting in February.

Delving into details, it has been reported that the deployment will last an estimated three weeks in support of Iceland, a country that relies on the air coverage provided by its NATO neighbors as it lacks its own Air Force. In addition to the four F/A-18s from the 11th Lapland Air Wing, Finland will also contribute a contingent of 50 personnel to support the deployed aircraft.

It is also worth noting that Keflavík Air Base is a key operational point for the Icelandic Coast Guard, which is expected to contribute to the mission’s success. The base plays a crucial role in monitoring the so-called GIUK gap, an area of significant strategic importance due to frequent Russian aircraft activity in the region, as well as serving as a transit point for transatlantic air deployments.

In relation to the above, it is important to mention that while Iceland lacks its own air assets, NATO’s Air Policing missions do not imply a continuous deployment in the country. Rotations frequently involve varying aircraft types and numbers. Prior to the arrival of the Finnish F/A-18s, the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom was responsible for airspace surveillance, deploying its F-35B Lightning II jets from the 617 Squadron.

Finally, it is useful to mention that before their journey to Iceland, the Finnish Air Force’s F/A-18s participated in the extensive Cobra Warrior 24-2 exercises alongside their NATO counterparts in 2024. During these exercises, the squadron operated with more than 80 aircraft to enhance interoperability between allied forces, focusing on hypothetical engagements against a peer adversary. Additionally, in the same year, the force deployed its fighters for NATO Air Policing missions in Romania, with previous operations in Lithuanian airspace in 2023.

On this matter, Major General Timo Herranen, who has served as the commander of the Finnish Air Force since December 1, 2024, stated: “The Air Forces of Norway and Denmark have regularly contributed to the air surveillance mission in Iceland, making this a natural task for Finland as well. In line with Finland’s objectives, NATO has recognized the strategic importance of the High North.”

Image credits: Finnish Air Force

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