The situation regarding air patrols over the Baltic Sea has intensified once again. On Friday, June 12, Swedish quick-reaction forces were forced to carry out two separate missions to intercept Russian military aircraft. The incidents occurred in close proximity to Swedish airspace, requiring an immediate response from local military forces.
Incident details: Su-24 and Su-34
Official confirmation of the interceptions was provided by the Swedish Armed Forces. JAS 39 Gripen fighters were scrambled to perform the task of identifying and escorting the intruders. According to the agency, the objects of the Swedish pilots' attention were two Russian combat aircraft:
- Two-seat front-line bomber Su-24 (NATO reporting name — Fencer).
- Multifunctional front-line bomber Su-34 (NATO reporting name — Fullback).
Both missions were conducted within a single day, indicating a high intensity of Russian aviation flight activity in the region.
Context: Growing activity in the Baltic
These events are not isolated. In January 2026, Swedish quick-reaction forces had already performed similar tasks, intercepting two Russian fighters over the Baltic Sea. During that period, Swedish military officials officially stated that they were conducting 24/7 air patrols, emphasizing their role in protecting NATO member states.
The Baltic Sea region remains an area of heightened tension where such incidents are regularly recorded. Previously, cases of joint interception by Swedish and German aviation of two Russian Su-30s were recorded. Furthermore, the Polish Air Force has repeatedly scrambled their aircraft to escort Russian reconnaissance aircraft, specifically the Il-20, in the Baltic waters.