German Air Force Tracks Russian Military Aircraft Over Baltic Sea

On March 10, 2025, the German Air Force dispatched two Eurofighter jets to monitor a Russian military aircraft that had entered neutral airspace over the Baltic Sea. The aircraft in question was identified as a Russian IL-20M reconnaissance plane, which raised concerns due to its lack of a flight plan and radio communication. Following visual identification, the German jets handed over escort duties to their NATO allies in Sweden.

According to a statement from the German Air Force, this quick response was part of NATO’s collective defense efforts. “Once again, our quick reaction alert force, consisting of two Eurofighters, was tasked by NATO with investigating an unidentified aircraft without a flight plan or radio contact in international airspace,” the statement read. After confirming the aircraft’s identity, the Eurofighters returned to their base in Rostock-Laage.

Escalation of Tensions in the Region

The incident comes amid rising tensions between Russia and NATO countries, particularly in the Baltic region. On March 8, 2025, Estonian officials reported that three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets had violated Estonian airspace. These aircraft remained in Estonian territory for approximately twelve minutes before being compelled to withdraw.

NATO’s North Atlantic Council will convene on March 12, 2025, to address these recent violations of airspace. Two officials, who requested anonymity, confirmed the meeting’s agenda will focus on Russia’s actions in the region, which have raised significant security concerns among NATO member states.

The increasing frequency of such incidents highlights a critical aspect of military readiness and response in Europe. NATO’s commitment to collective defense remains robust, as demonstrated by the swift actions taken by the German Air Force and its coordination with Swedish forces.

As the situation develops, the implications of these airspace violations could further strain international relations in an already tense geopolitical landscape.