Russia Awards Commander of Corvette That Fired Flares Toward Danish Helicopter

Russia has awarded the commander of the Soobrazitelny corvette, which fired signal flares toward a Danish military helicopter.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the commander received the Medal “For Combat Distinction.”

On September 14, the Russian corvette fired two signal flares toward a helicopter while it was flying near Falster Island in the Baltic Sea.

The incident occurred during a routine flight by a Danish Fennec helicopter photographing the Russian vessel.

The Russian warship was in international waters near Gedser, at the southern tip of Falster Island.

One signal flare flew close to the Danish helicopter.

Signal flares are typically used at sea to attract attention or communicate signals.

According to the Russian version of events, the crew of the Soobrazitelny “prevented a provocation” by the Danish helicopter, which allegedly failed to respond to calls over international communication channels.

After the flares were launched, the helicopter left the area where the Russian warship was operating.

Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus called the incident serious and said the Foreign Ministry would summon the Russian ambassador for an explanation.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, commenting on the incident, said Russia had intensified its hybrid war against Europe.

Russian ships have previously been involved in similar incidents. In June 2026, for example, the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich opened warning fire at a British yacht in the English Channel.