Dutch F-35 fighter jets intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea on Friday, demonstrating the heightened state of vigilance in the region amid ongoing tensions. The jets closely monitored the movements of the Russian aircraft, which were reported to be conducting maneuvers in airspace adjacent to NATO territories. Following the interception, the Dutch pilots escorted the Russian planes at a distance, ensuring they remained in international waters while maintaining a strategic presence until they approached the border of the NATO area of responsibility.

This operation, confirmed by the Dutch defence ministry on Monday, highlights the commitment of NATO forces to safeguard airspace integrity and reinforce collective defense measures in response to any potential threats.

Since December, Dutch F-35s have been patrolling NATO’s eastern border. As part of this effort, the quick reaction alert (QRA) is activated, deploying two F-35s from Estonia to intercept any unidentified aircraft approaching NATO airspace.

“This is why our people are there: to protect our collective airspace against Russian threats,” Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans said on Monday. “As was once again evident on Friday, Russian forces are active in all sorts of ways near NATO airspace.”