On May 4 a Portuguese Air Force detachment took over the NATO Baltic Air Policing Mission from Spain at a formal rotation ceremony in Šiauliai Air Base.
Chief of Defence of Spain General Admiral underscored at the changeover ceremony the importance of the mission and called it a strategic effort that ensures control of NATO air borders. "Participation in this mission is a demonstration of Spain's solidarity and commitment to NATO collective defence," Gen Adm Fernando Garcia Sanchez said.
"Chief of Defence of Spain Gen Adm Fernando García Sánchez is very positive about future cooperation with the Lithuanian Armed Forces. There are plans to continue deploying to the air policing mission in Lithuania. According to General, the experience and knowledge gain through direct contact with the high activity of Russian military aircraft on the Baltic borderline is truly rewarding for Spanish airmen. The possibility of deploying land forces for training in Lithuania is also considered," Lieutenant General Jonas Vytautas Žukas said after a meeting with his Spanish counterpart.
Portugal conducts its 3rd mission from Šiauliai with 4 Fighting Falcon F-16 fighter aircraft.
NATO allies began sending air personnel and assets to guard the Baltic airspace when the Baltic States joined NATO in March 2004. Since then, 17 NATO allies have already been protecting Baltic skies.
The NATO Air Policing Mission in the Baltic States is the cornerstone of Alliance solidarity, while protection of the integrity of the Baltic airspace is a collective task. NATO applies security standards which are equal to all allies, including those that do not possess their own air capabilities like the Baltic States. NATO fighter aircraft on duty in the Baltic States all year round are ready to respond to any violations of Lithuanian, Latvian and Estonian airspace.
Credits: A. Pliadis, Lithuanian Air Force Base.
Acting Spokesperson for the Chief of Defence of Lithuania Captain Donatas Suchockis
Office phone no. 00370 5 278 5091, cell phone no. 00370 682 25359, e-mail: donatas.suchockis@mil.lt
