In a bid to boost air defense capabilities in Estonia, the UK Royal Air Force (RAF) will be collaborating with the German Air Force to fly joint missions in the region. The joint missions will provide the RAF with the opportunity to train and operate alongside the German Air Force, enhancing their interoperability and combat readiness. This collaboration is part of the UK’s efforts to lead NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission in Estonia, aimed at safeguarding the airspace of the Baltic nations.
As part of the preparations for the mission, the RAF will be deploying Typhoon fighter jets and a team of support personnel to Amari Air Base in Estonia. The mission is set to last for four months, with the UK taking over the air policing role in September 2021.
The RAF’s role in the mission is to protect the airspace of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, ensuring that they are not violated by unauthorized aircraft. This is a vital mission as it helps to deter any potential security threats to the Baltic nations and their neighboring allies. The UK has a longstanding commitment to the Baltic region, having led NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission six times since 2004.
The joint missions with the German Air Force will provide the RAF with the opportunity to share knowledge and expertise, enhancing their ability to operate in a multinational context. The training will also help to build trust and foster stronger relationships between the UK and its NATO allies.
The deployment of the RAF’s Typhoon fighter jets to Estonia is a testament to the UK’s commitment to the region’s security and its NATO allies. The Typhoon is a highly capable aircraft, capable of conducting air-to-air and air-to-ground operations, and is equipped with advanced radar and weapons systems.
The joint missions between the RAF and the German Air Force demonstrate NATO’s collective defense approach, where allies work together to deter and defend against any potential security threats. The mission in Estonia is a clear demonstration of NATO’s commitment to the security and stability of its member states.
The joint missions between the RAF and the German Air Force and the UK’s preparations to lead NATO air policing in Estonia are significant steps towards enhancing the security and stability of the Baltic region. The deployment of the RAF’s Typhoon fighter jets and the collaboration with the German Air Force will enhance the RAF’s combat readiness and interoperability, enabling them to better protect the airspace of the Baltic nations. The UK’s commitment to the region’s security is a testament to its longstanding partnership with its NATO allies and its commitment to collective defense.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
