Following its accession to NATO, Finland is preparing to take part in its first overseas NATO mission, signaling a new stage in its defense role within the alliance. According to a statement from the Finnish Ministry of Defense, between June 3 and July 31, 2024, the Finnish Air Force will deploy 70 to 100 personnel and eight Boeing F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets to Romania for NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission. This will be the first time Finland actively participates in a NATO operation abroad since becoming a full member.

The Enhanced Air Policing mission was originally established in 2014 after Russia’s annexation of Crimea and aims to safeguard NATO’s airspace over the Black Sea, including Romania and Bulgaria, from Russian airspace violations. Finland’s participation is viewed as a significant step in reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank and strengthening the alliance’s deterrence capabilities.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Air Force also contributes to this mission. The 113th Squadron assumed responsibility from the 152nd Squadron on January 31, 2024. Türkiye’s participation in the mission is expected to conclude on April 1, 2024. The simultaneous involvement of both Türkiye and Finland underscores NATO’s strong sense of allied solidarity and commitment to collective security.

Finland’s decision to join the mission not only strengthens its position within NATO but also demonstrates its commitment to European security. This step highlights Finland’s deeper integration into the alliance and its readiness to contribute actively to regional defense.