Norwegian F-35s Intercept Russian Bomber Task Force

Norwegian F-35 Intercept Russian Bomber Task Force

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F-35 in Action

February 05, 2025

Norway F-35 Capabilities

Story by Allied Air Command Public Affairs Office

RAMSTEIN, Germany - Two Royal Norwegian Air Force F-35 jets scrambled on the 4 of February 2025, when two Russian TU-95 Bear H Bomber Aircraft escorted by two Flanker-D flew close to NATO Airspace up in the High North.

Our Quick Reaction Alert mission in the High North is important for our national defence and NATO's collective security.

The Norwegian F-35 pilots quickly located and identified the Russian aircraft, maintained a safe but vigilant distance, enabling them to closely monitor the aircraft's movements. The F-35 advanced capabilities allowed them to gather important information and ensure that the Russian aircraft did not violate NATO airspace.

"Our Quick Reaction Alert mission in the High North is important for our national defence and NATO's collective security. The ability to respond swiftly ensures the safety of our airspace and highlights the strength of our allied forces in maintaining peace and stability." – Major General Øivind Gunnerud, Norwegian Air Chief.

Intercepts like this underscore the importance of NATO's Air Policing mission. The ability to detect, intercept, and monitor potential threats is crucial for maintaining regional security and stability. It involves the continuous presence and readiness of fighter jets, which can be scrambled to respond to potential communication loss, airspace violations or activities that do not adhere to international aviation law.

Two Russian TU-95 Strategic bomber aircraft were flying north of Norway, escorted first by two SU-27 Flanker, then by two Foxhounds. Photo courtesy: Royal Norwegian Air Force

Two Russian Flanker-D was escorting the TU-95 Bear Hotel flying in international space north of Norway. Photo Courtesy: Royal Norwegian Air Force

A Norwegian F-35A Lightning II returns to Evenes Air Station after a successful NATO Air Policing mission, safeguarding the skies of the High North. Archive Photo Courtesy: Norwegian Armed Forces

NATO Air Policing is a peacetime collective defence mission that aims to ensure the integrity and security of the Alliance's airspace. In the High North and Arctic, this mission takes on added significance due to the region's unique geographical and geopolitical characteristics.

A combination of military interests, technological advancements and climate changes point to an increasingly contested High North, the changing security environment will require careful navigation. NATO continues to prepare the Alliance for the challenges of today and tomorrow to develop and maintain NATO’s decisive military advantage, including those in the Arctic region.