Sweden Deploys Gripen Fighter Jets to Poland for NATO Air Policing Mission

March 29, 2025

In a significant step for international military cooperation, Sweden has deployed six JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets to Poland, marking its first overseas contribution to NATO's Air Policing mission. The Gripen aircraft, which hail from the Norrbotten Wing of the Swedish Air Force, have arrived at Malbork Air Base and will begin operations under NATO's Allied Air Command starting in April 2025. This deployment represents a pivotal shift in Sweden's engagement with NATO. Previously, Sweden provided support for Air Policing operations solely from its home territory. The latest move not only enhances Sweden's role within the alliance but also underscores its commitment to collective defense initiatives.

Joint Operations with Other Allied Forces

The Swedish fighter jets will operate in conjunction with Royal Air Force Eurofighter Typhoons, creating a joint detachment that will function under the command of NATO’s Combined Air Operations Centre. This collaboration aims to maintain the integrity of Allied airspace during peacetime.

Lieutenant Colonel Anders Gustafsson of the Swedish Air Force expressed satisfaction with the preparations for the quick reaction alert (QRA) mission. "We have had very good and close cooperation with both the British and the Polish to ensure that all pieces fall into place," he stated. "Everything has gone very well so far, and we are looking forward to strengthening NATO’s air defense."

Context of Enhanced Air Policing

The launch of Enhanced Air Policing in 2014 followed Russia’s annexation of Crimea and has formed a crucial part of NATO's reassurance measures aimed at deterring aggression along its eastern flank. Sweden’s involvement further contributes to the collaborative defensive posture of the alliance.

Colonel Martin O'Donnell, spokesperson for Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, emphasized the importance of Sweden's contribution. “This is a significant contribution from NATO’s newest member,” he noted. “We welcome the additional strength Sweden brings to our air policing mission.”

Sweden's presence in Poland underscores NATO's ongoing focus on regional security and reinforces the operational readiness and unity among its member states, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Conclusion

As Sweden takes this step into a new phase of NATO collaboration, the deployment of Gripen fighter jets not only bolsters the alliance's military capabilities but also signifies deeper ties and cooperation among NATO members. This initiative reflects Sweden's evolving role in contributing to collective defense efforts and ensuring regional security in a changing global landscape.