Italian F-35A fighter jets launched from Estonia for the first time to engage Russian aircraft during a NATO air patrol operation
In a significant event on August 13, 2025, Italian F-35A fighter jets from the 32nd Air Wing carried out their first interception of Russian aircraft during a NATO air patrol mission over the Baltic Sea. The incident occurred after the jets were scrambled from Ämari Air Base in Estonia, as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission.
The interception involved two Italian F-35 Lightning II jets, who intercepted a Russian Sukhoi Su-24 tactical bomber and a Sukhoi Su-27 fighter jet. These Russian aircraft were operating near NATO Baltic airspace without flight plans or active transponders. This marked the first time Italian fifth-generation fighters conducted such a mission in the Baltic theatre under NATO.
The 32nd Wing detachment at Ämari maintains a Quick Reaction Alert posture to protect NATO skies, and this mission demonstrated NATO’s resolve amid increased Russian aerial activity in the region. The deployment of Italy’s advanced stealth F-35s plays a crucial role in collective air defense over the Baltic states, which lack their own fighter jets and rely on rotating NATO allies like Italy to secure their airspace.
The Su-35S fighters intercepted by the NATO air patrol mission were flying in international airspace over the Baltic Sea. The Italian F-35A fighter jets maintained visual and radio contact with the Su-35S fighters throughout the interception, which lasted approximately 20 minutes. The interception was conducted in accordance with international rules of engagement, and no aggressive or unprofessional behavior was reported during the encounter.
The NATO Air Command confirmed the successful completion of the intercept mission, and the mission was led by the Italian F-35A fighter jets from the 32nd Air Wing. The intercepted Russian aircraft were not specified, but the incident underscores the alliance's commitment to ensuring the security of NATO airspace.
This marked the first time the Italian F-35A fighter jets from the 32nd Air Wing had intercepted Russian aircraft, and it is a testament to their readiness and capability to respond to any potential threats in the region. The operational air group is based at Emari Air Base, and they remain on constant alert. The mission took place for the first time, demonstrating the alliance's resolve in maintaining peace and security in the Baltic region.
The interception of Russian aircraft by Italian F-35A fighter jets showcased the importance of NATO's finance investment in advanced stealth aircraft like the F-35 in industries such as transportation and aviation. The incident highlighted the reliance of Baltic states on rotating NATO allies, like Italy, for their air defense, especially in areas such as finance and industry that lack air defense capabilities.
