NATO strengthens eastern flank defense: Spain sends F-18s to Romania, Italy and Turkey take Baltic missions

NATO is bolstering its air defense capabilities along its eastern flank through significant troop and military equipment deployments. Spain is set to send seven F-18 fighter jets, an A400M tanker aircraft, and around 200 military personnel to the Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base in Romania.

The Spanish contingent will also include three NH-90 helicopters, which are nearing the final stages of their mission and will be utilized for anti-drone operations. This deployment is part of NATO's transition from traditional Air Policing missions to a broader air defense concept, aiming for more flexible responses within the Alliance's integrated air and missile defense system.

“

Our goal is clear: to contribute to the Alliance's deterrence actions, protect NATO's airspace, and strengthen the Alliance's posture on the eastern flank.

Lieutenant Colonel Alberto Calvo, commander of the Spanish detachment, stated, "Our goal is clear: to contribute to the Alliance's deterrence actions, protect NATO's airspace, and strengthen the Alliance's posture on the eastern flank." He added, "Spain participates in this mission as a committed, reliable, and capable ally. We understand that collective defense is not an abstract principle but a daily responsibility that requires presence, readiness, and credibility."

“

Spain participates in this mission as a committed, reliable, and capable ally. We understand that collective defense is not an abstract principle but a daily responsibility that requires presence, readiness, and credibility.

In parallel, Turkey is rejoining NATO air missions in the Baltic states after nearly two decades. Five F-16 fighter jets and approximately 80 soldiers will be deployed to Ämari Air Base in Estonia. This marks Turkey's return to the Baltic region's air policing after a 20-year hiatus, taking over from the Portuguese Air Force.

Meanwhile, Italy will replace France and Romania in securing the Baltic airspace from Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania. The Italian Air Force will deploy four Eurofighter Typhoon jets and over 100 personnel to the base. These coordinated deployments underscore NATO's commitment to reinforcing its eastern defenses and ensuring collective security.

“

The deployment marks the transition from NATO's Air Policing mission to a broader air defense role, intended to provide the Alliance with a more flexible approach within the integrated air and missile defense system (IAMD) across NATO's area of responsibility.