Nordic Allies Join Forces as Sweden Boosts Finland's Air and Sea Defenses

HELSINKI, Finland – Sweden will send fighter jets and warships to Finland to help protect its border with Russia. The decision comes after Finland asked for military support.

Sweden will deploy JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets and a naval corvette (a small warship) to help patrol the air and sea. The operation will continue at least until the end of 2026.

Why is this happening?

The security situation in the region has become worse. Finland has faced several problems this year, including drones crossing into its airspace and suspected violations by Russia. Some of these incidents have caused airports to close temporarily.

Finland shares a 1,340-kilometer (833-mile) border with Russia.

What will the Swedish forces do?

The Swedish military will help watch and protect Finnish territory. The Gripen fighter jets will strengthen air surveillance. This will free up Finnish defense forces to deal with other problems if needed.

Sweden may also send anti-drone units to Finland later in the autumn if necessary.

What are leaders saying?

“Sweden responded to a Finnish request to strengthen its air defense due to the deteriorating security situation,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb called the decision “a new step forward” in defense cooperation between the two countries. “The Nordic region forms a unified entity. We trust one another, and together we are stronger,” he said.

Background

Both Sweden and Finland recently joined NATO – Finland in 2023 and Sweden in 2024. They already have close defense cooperation.

In a related development, Sweden's defense company Saab recently won a $126 million order from Finland to supply anti-aircraft missile systems.