Dutch F-35 fighters arrived at the Latvian Lielvārde Air Base.

The Latvian Ministry of Defense stated that these Dutch F-35 fighters are protecting the Baltic airspace.

During the Russia-Ukrainian war, NATO fighter jets deployed in the Baltic States are also flying along NATO’s eastern border, preventing illegal penetration of aircraft from Russia into the airspace of the Baltic States.

The Latvian Air Force does not have its own fighter jets in service, but has 3 air bases.

This is not the first time Latvia has received F-35 fighters.

The 5th generation fighters first arrived in the country in 2019.

At that time, the U.S. aircraft took part in the Rapid Forge 2019 air defense exercise, which was held in the Baltic States for the first time.
NATO aircraft often have to intercept Russian planes flying into Baltic airspace.

Previously, French Rafale fighter jets intercepted two Russian aircraft over the Baltic.

It regards Russian IL-78 and IL-20M aircraft that were flying in violation of international aviation rules. Rafale fighter jets intercepted them off the coast of Latvia.

“France remains fully committed to the defense of its airspace,” the statement said.

In January, Russia’s S-400 system used its radar to direct anti-aircraft missiles at a French Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft over the Baltic Sea.