Sweden to send Gripen fighters and naval vessels to Finland

Sweden has decided to deploy military forces, including its advanced Gripen fighter jets and naval vessels, to Finland. This significant move aims to bolster the security of Finland's border with Russia and enhance regional defense capabilities.

The Swedish government's decision comes in response to a formal request for military assistance from Finland. In recent times, Finland has faced several airspace incursions, including Ukrainian drones and violations by Russian aircraft, linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. The deployment of Swedish assets is intended to strengthen Finland's ability to monitor its airspace and territorial integrity.

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strengthen together Finland's territorial integrity monitoring and support NATO's deterrence and defense.

According to the Finnish Ministry of Defence, this joint initiative signifies intensified cooperation between Finland and Sweden, particularly in addressing threats such as Russian drones. The collaboration is seen as a crucial component of bilateral and Nordic defense ties, now extending to the monitoring and safeguarding of territorial integrity.

Finnish Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen stated that the air and sea cooperation with Sweden is an essential part of their bilateral and Nordic collaboration. He emphasized that this joint effort complements Finland's national defense measures and contributes to NATO's overall deterrence and defense strategy. The deployment is expected to begin soon, with the potential for additional Swedish ground forces, including drone defense units, to be sent to Finland during the autumn.

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Air and sea cooperation is an essential part of our bilateral and Nordic cooperation, and now we are developing it also in monitoring and securing territorial integrity.