Finnish F/A-18 Hornet fighters to patrol Icelandic skies for NATO in February 2025

By Defence Industry Europe

For the first time, Finland’s F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets will surveil and protect Icelandic airspace as part of NATO operations. The mission, scheduled for February 2025, highlights Finland’s active role within the Alliance since becoming a member.

 

Iceland lacks its own air force, so NATO member states assist with airborne surveillance and interception to ensure Iceland’s security during peacetime. Finland will join the NATO Icelandic Air Policing mission, deploying four F/A-18 Hornets and 50 personnel to Keflavík Air Base, located 50 kilometres from Reykjavík.

This mission exemplifies NATO’s collective defence and deterrence strategy, where all member states contribute to securing Allied airspace. Finnish involvement also underscores the Alliance’s increasing focus on the High North’s strategic importance.

The Finnish Air Force’s deployment will strengthen Nordic cooperation and further NATO’s presence in the region. Finland’s Major General Timo Herranen emphasised that the mission is a natural step for the country, aligning with contributions from Denmark and Norway, who have regularly participated in Icelandic air policing.

 

 

The operation will provide valuable experience for Finland in conducting Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duties within NATO’s integrated air defence system. The mission follows Finland’s 2024 deployment to Romania, demonstrating the Air Force’s adaptability to diverse environments across NATO territories.

The Finnish fighter jets will arrive in Iceland in January 2025, with personnel and materials transported shortly before the mission begins. Certification for the deployment will be conducted by NATO’s Combined Air Operations Centre (CAOC) Uedem. The Finnish Air Force will conduct QRA duties with armed F/A-18 Hornets equipped for air-to-air combat, working closely with Icelandic personnel.

This three-week mission in February marks Finland’s third NATO deployment since joining in 2023. Earlier missions included securing skies during the NATO Summit in Lithuania and contributing to Air Policing and Air Shielding missions in Romania.

 

Source: Finnish Air Force.

 

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