The United States has transferred fifth-generation F-22 Raptor fighter jets to Estonia.

The US Air Combat Command reported this.

Fighters executed a deployment to Ämari Air Base, Estonia, on May 8, 2023, to deter aggression in the Baltic Sea region. Fighter jets arrived from Poland.

American fifth-generation fighters are supporting the mission to protect the airspace of allies in this region.

In early April, 12 F-22 Raptors were transferred from the United States to Poland’s Powidz Air Base to sustain a mission that complements NATO’s integrated air and missile defense capabilities on the eastern flank.

By rapidly fielding forces alongside NATO Allies in the Baltic Sea region, U.S. Air Forces in Europe highlight the operational readiness of the coalition forces throughout the European theater and their ability to respond to defend NATO territory.

The US Air Combat Command also noted that the Spanish Armed Forces deployed the NASAMS air defense system in Latvia.

Estonia strives to achieve a rotation of air defense systems from its NATO allies, much like the rotation of fighter jets that protect the airspace of the Baltic countries, until it receives its own systems.

British Typhoon fighter jets stationed in Estonia are patrolling the airspace over the Baltic Sea.

F-22 Raptor is a fifth-generation multirole fighter developed by Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and General Dynamics to replace the fourth-generation F-15 Eagle fighter.

In 2005, the F-22 entered service with the US Air Force. During serial production (between 1997 and 2011), 187 serial units and 8 prototypes were produced.

At various times, the United States allies have expressed interest in purchasing the aircraft, but US law prohibits its export.