Finnish Air Force to join NATO’s Ramstein Flag 25 exercise in the Netherlands

Organised by NATO Allied Air Command, Ramstein Flag is a multinational live-fly training event focused on enhancing air power integration and readiness. This year’s edition involves over 90 aircraft from 15 Allied nations, operating from bases in the Netherlands, the UK, and Denmark, with flight activities primarily over the North Sea.

Finland’s participation is led by the Karelia Air Wing and aims to strengthen joint operations with NATO Allies under Article 5 collective defence scenarios. The Finnish Air Force will focus on integrating fourth and fifth-generation fighter capabilities, improving interoperability, and supporting NATO’s deterrence posture.

“Participation in the Ramstein Flag 25 exercise enables a wide variety of mission types to be planned and executed together with Allies,” said Major General Timo Herranen, Commander of the Finnish Air Force. “Finland will soon join the growing European F-35 community, so the development of the integration of 4th and 5th generation fighter jets is important for us.”

The exercise will include a range of aircraft, such as tankers, surveillance platforms, and special forces, to train advanced air combat and support operations. Key focus areas include Counter Anti-Access/Area Denial (C-A2AD), Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD), Agile Combat Employment (ACE), and enhanced information sharing.

“Ramstein Flag 25 underscores the Alliance’s determination to adapt, evolve, and deter potential threats across the Euro-Atlantic region,” said General James Hecker, Commander of NATO Allied Air Command. “This year’s exercise builds on the successes of Ramstein Flag 2024 and continues to push the boundaries of realistic, high-intensity training.”

Leeuwarden Air Base, one of the two home bases for the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, serves as the main hub for the exercise. For the host nation, the event is also a vital opportunity to refine its own air capabilities and strengthen cooperation within the Alliance.

“We are proud to host this year’s edition of Ramstein Flag in the Netherlands,” said Lieutenant General André Steur, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. “This high-end exercise offers a unique opportunity for the Alliance and its member nations to enhance their readiness.”

Source: Finnish Air Force.