Sweden deploys Gripen fighters and warships to Finland

Sweden is deploying JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets and naval warships to Finland to strengthen monitoring and protection along the Finnish-Russian border. The deployment, which includes approximately 24 fighter jets and Visby-class corvettes, is intended to safeguard Finnish airspace and maritime borders through at least the end of 2026.

This strategic move follows increased security concerns in the Baltic region, including reported airspace violations by Russian aircraft and the presence of Ukrainian drones affected by electronic warfare entering Finnish territory. The operation is being conducted in coordination with NATO and is based on bilateral agreements that allow Sweden to deploy forces to defend Finland’s territorial integrity.

As part of this enhanced presence, Sweden will assume command of NATO’s forward-deployed land forces in Finland. This includes establishing a multinational headquarters and a combat group to bolster NATO’s northern European deterrence and defense capabilities.