The Italian military-air forces, which for four months ensured the safety of the Baltic Air Force, transferred responsibility for the mission of the royal Air Force of Belgium and the France Air Force.
The Belgian military, located in Lithuania, will carry out aircraft patrol using four F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters, while the French military will use four Miraage 2000 fighters.
Deputy Defense Minister of Lithuania Zhilvinas Tomkus emphasized that in the face of the current security situation, cooperation of the Alliance members in the field of collective defense is of particular importance. The mission to patrol airspace serves as a demonstration of solidarity and NATO confidence, and the Alliance members play an important role in guaranteeing the security of the Baltic States and in strengthening readiness for restraint and defense.
The royal Air Force of Belgium has been participating in the NATO mission for the Baltic airspace. The composition of the Belgian contingent has about 80 servicemen of different specialties, including pilots, technicians, medical staff and communications.
The French Air Force, eighth, unfolding in the Baltic countries, will perform patrol tasks with the help of about 100 servicemen of different types of troops.
The Italian military, after completing their mission, used four Eurofighter Typhoon fighters to patrol airspace.
The NATO Patrolling Mission, established in 2004, aims to protect Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. The Alliance Member States will take part in this mission.
