NATO's Baltic Air Policing Mission 'Essentially Permanent'
NATO has decided to make permanent its Baltic air policing mission, in which larger member states patrol the region with their fighter jets on a rota basis.
Media reported earlier today that the air policing mission was extended to 2018, but upon inquiry, the Defense Ministry said the new agreement is “essentially permanent.”
Defense Minister Mart Laar called the development a major step that means that Estonia does not have to worry about having to acquire its own fighter aircraft - an expensive and complicated endeavor. "Instead we can concentrate on developing essential initial defense capabilities that are more suited for Estonia's capacity. For the people of Estonia, this is a clear sign that NATO exists,” said Laar.
In 2010, the air policing mission was extended until the end of 2014. But the Baltics have since been pushing for a permanent solution.
Laar said the program is also a responsibility for the Baltics. The host countries must continue to ensure adequate support to member states' air forces, in the form of sufficient air bases and personnel training. For Estonia, that primarily means continuing to develop the Ämari air base," said Laar. The patrol fighters and crews are currently stationed in Lithuania.
First established in 2004, the Air Policing program involves up to four jets at a time with providing countries rotating every four months. Baltic skies are currently being protected by German air force.
Ott Tammik